DEMOLITION work is finally set to begin on notorious high- rise flats to make way for new homes.

The run-down council blocks at Royal Court, in King Edward Road, Laindon, will finally get torn down next month to make way for 76 homes, with a mixture of affordable and private properties.

The 96 boarded-up flats have been empty since the last residents moved out in October.

Councillor Frank Tomlin, cabinet member for housing, said: “This has been going on for some while now. We are hoping the work could start in about a month.

“When these blocks come down, it will be a symbol of the end of an era in Laindon and the beginning of a new one.

“This project is part of our long-term programme to regenerate the area, replacing some of the housing built during the Sixties with much better, high-quality modern homes.”

The estate, which has become a magnet for antisocial behaviour, has seen a mixture of other new homes built next door to Royal Court, and a shop.

Housing Association Family Mosaic is working with the council and contractor Lovell’s to regenerate Royal Court, and the scheme has also received funding from the Government’s Homes and Communities Agency.

Work on the site begun in February, which has including stripping the towers of recyclable materials and fittings.

The towers will not be demolished using explosives due to health and safety concerns, so the blocks will be dismantled floor by floor.

The council hopes the work will be carried out with little disruption to residents. Work is expected to be completed by Christmas.