Residents in sheltered accommodation are rejoicing after a U-turn in health and safety procedures means they can now hand decorations in their common room.

The Echo had previously reported Basildon Council asked resident Jan Curtis, 70, to take down her Christmas decorations she had made for Kenilworth Sheltered Accommodation, in Kenilworth Road, Noak Bridge.

Ms Curtis was informed by the accommodation’s warden that her Christmas buntings, baubles and other ornaments, which she hung across the pillars and beside a fireplace, would cause health and safety issues.

The council told Ms Curtis they were reviewing their safety procedures in council accommodations in light of the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

It has now transpired that the council has allowed Ms Curtis to put back the decorations in the common area.

Councillor Kerry Smith, chairman of the housing and community committee was informed about the situation last Friday. He then spoke to council officers asking them to change their decision.

He said: “The pensioners are having their Christmas and the health and safety brigade can go do one.

“The residents have gone through tough times, they have lived through war and they were told that some Christmas tinsels would cause problems.

“If residents are allowed to hang Christmas decorations in their own room they should be allowed to have them in the common area.”

Ms Curtis said: “I am just relieved that it’s all resolved. I can see where the council is coming from, but it was a little bit too much especially that it’s Christmas.

“We’re all very happy that the council and all of us has come to an agreement.”