RESIDENTS have welcomed plans to renovate the Felmores estate in Basildon as the council opens consultations as part of a multi-million-pound scheme to enhance estates across the borough.

Works are set to get underway on the estate as part of the council's Safe and Sound Estates programme.

The council aims to revamp the estates communal bin areas, repair homes, and potentially install new fitness and leisure facilities – but residents will be asked what they want to see done for their community.

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“I’ve been here my whole life, and yes, it can be rough around the edges, and needs some sprucing up, but it also has that community togetherness,” said Malyons Close resident of 10 years Bradley Grant.

“It’s got a worse reputation than it really is in terms of crime and stuff, but it certainly is in need of a fresh lick of paint.”

He added: “The pavements are all cracked and broke, so I would love to something done to sort them out.”

Pitsea North West Councillor Sam Gascoyne agrees the area is in ned of renovation.

He said: “Unfortunately, the area, in my opinion, had been a bit neglected or left behind over the years.

“Residents I have spoken to say they want the bins improved, so the outside collection areas are easier to access and tidier.

“There are opportunities for more greenery and trees, maybe play areas or sporting facilities, and even more parking space on the estate.”

Mr Gascyone says the council is aware of the problem and would like to improve pavements, but remained hesitant to committing to works roads and pavements are under the jurisdiction of Essex County Council.

“The pavements could definitely do with an uplift,” he admitted.

“But it’s early days in the consultation, and most importantly we want to hear back from residents what they want.”

A Basildon Council spokesman: “The range of improvement works will include conducting on the spot estate repairs, consultation around waste and recycling facilities, housing repairs, plus lots of other works across the estate.

“We’re also engaging with residents via our Estate Improvement events through August, so we can learn what further improvements they would want to see, and also to inform residents about the services we offer and how we can best support them.”