THE regeneration of Victoria Avenue’s decaying high-rise blocks has been a long-held pipe dream. Now, after decades of dreaming, it is a reality.

The first two refurbishment schemes, of Heath House and Carby House, are under way, and some apartments are already on the market.

The reasons behind this transformation are clear. The buildings have become highly attractive to developers. The private sector has taken over, and what has for so long been a problem, has become an opportunity.

The restored tower blocks will help to provide a solution to the general shortage of new housing stock in south Essex.

They will also appeal to the type of buyers who would once have sought a property in London, but have now been driven further afield by soaring prices in the capital.

As a direct knock-on effect, market forces are also serving to regenerate and enliven one of the most run-down zones in Southend, without the need for a further penny of public money.

Southend’s image will also be improved. Victoria Avenue is the gateway to Southend, but for far too long the gateway has been half off its hinges.

The one concern is that the properties should be reasonably affordable.

Victoria Avenue must not turn into an enclave purely for the rich, or a sterile nest of investment properties, like all too many areas of London.