THE first phase of a £40million project to improve council homes in Rochford is under way.

Rochford Housing Association, which took over responsibility for the district's 1,750 homes in July last year, is investing £27million during the next five years for work on the houses.

The programme, which started at the beginning of the month, will see tenants receive new kitchens, bathrooms, windows, doors, rewiring and other work to ensure homes are up to scratch.

The remaining £13million is due to be invested over the next five years.

Government cash for schemes to invest in council housing can only be given to housing associations.

Terry Cutmore, Conservative leader of Rochford District Council, said the council could not have found the same amount of investment for the homes if they were still their responsibility.

He said: "It is our job now to chase up the housing association to make sure, under the agreement we have with them, they deliver what they said they would deliver, and make sure we get the investment promised.

"I'm looking forward to seeing it move forward and to working with the new Rochford Housing Association."

Connaught Partnerships has been appointed by the housing association as the contractor responsible for carrying out the programme of improvements.

Simon Clark, managing director of Rochford Housing Association, said: "We are delighted to have appointed Connaught to carry out the improvements to our properties, and I am sure our residents will be happy with the improvements they receive."

Connaught Partnerships will also provide a day-to-day maintenance and repairs service to council housing residents.

Cliff Parsons, area director for the company, said: "Rochford residents are entitled to decent homes and communities, and we're thrilled to be part of the regeneration plan which will improve the quality of life for residents."