A YEAR-LONG project to transform a former police station into an exclusive block of flats is almost complete.

Developer SK Pearl Developments, bought the former Westcliff Police Station in March 2017 for £781,500 from Essex Police.

One year on and the Echo was invited to find out how the building in Claremont Road looks now.

The ten flat development, with one and two bedroom homes, offers buyers the chance to purchase homes from £225,000 to £275,000.

The original building was also extended.

Director Steven Kearney, 48, said: “We have carried out extensive works to the exterior of the building which we have kept as it is.

“This work includes cleaning the brick work and also revamping work on the roof of the building.

“This is our first venue into building developments, we have been architects for some time and now gone into building development projects.

“A lot of thought has gone into the design and look and feel of the apartments, it was something we worked hard at to get just right.

“We have had a lot of interest in the new apartments so expect the market will react well.”

Some of the flats have a ground floor garden space while others have a roof top terrace.

The existing building was constructed in the 1900s.

The police station closed to the public in September 2012 - although reopened temporarily while the Southend station, in Victoria Avenue, was refurbished.

The developer is holding an open day this Saturday, April 28 from 10am, when potential buyers will be able to find out more about the properties.