FLAT-pack homes boasting state-of-the-art technology have been installed in Basildon in an effort to tackle homelessness.

Developer The Hill Group has built the six homes in Nevendon Place and Burnt Mills Road and donated them all to the Salvation Army.

The homes, which are fully-furnished and exceed minimum building regulations for energy efficiency and sound insulation, will be offered out as temporary accommodation to people with nowhere to live.

Andrew Schrader, councillor responsible for housing and estate renewal, said: “This is a brilliant project that will transform the lives of Basildon’s residents in need.

“Thank you to all the partners who have worked so well together to make the opening of the first part of the scheme a reality.”

The Hill Group have donated the homes as part of their initiative, Foundation 200 - a £15 million pledge to manufacture and donate 200 modular homes by 2025 to charities tackling homelessness.

Group chief executive Andy Hill said: “We are delighted to gift these six purpose-built modular homes to the Salvation Army, supporting their efforts in helping vulnerable people in Basildon turn their lives around.

“Our SoloHaus technology is making a tangible difference to the lives of many people dealing with homelessness, and we are confident that these homes will help people get back on their feet in secure, modern, comfortable accommodation.”

The Salvation Army hope to have residents moving into the new homes by November.

Captain Paul Williams, church leader in Basildon during the project before moving to Felixstowe, returned to town for last week’s official handover of the keys.

He said: “There were times when things felt touch and go but we’re here now, the six units are up and its really great news.

“This will always be close to my heart, and I will keep an eye on how things develop.

“The most important aspect of this programme is that it is local led, community led, and Basildon led.

“It is something we fought for locally in Basildon.”