THE first residents have officially moved into Basildon’s new homeless accommodation as part of a project to slash the number of people sleeping rough.

Work has been completed on 16 new apartments at Nevendon Place, with the first residents moving into their new homes last week.

This initiative has been set - up by Basildon Council, Peabody and the Salvation Army’s Malachi Housing scheme to provide a solution to the growing issue of homelessness in the borough.

The facility comprises 16 self-contained apartments, ten of which are one-bedroom apartments and six one-bedroom pods known as “SoloHaus” units.

Echo: One of the private bathrooms in the facilityOne of the private bathrooms in the facility (Image: Basildon Council)

Andrew Schrader, cabinet member for housing and estate renewal, expressed his delight at the launch of the facility and praised the project for its potential to transform the lives of the residents.

He said: “I can’t wait to hear about the success stories that I know will come from this life-changing facility.

“But it’s a lot more than just a place to stay. The independent living, as well as training and support provided, will help residents with any issues they may be facing and get them back on their feet and into a sustainable situation.

“I can’t wait to hear about the success stories that I know will come from this life-changing facility.”

Echo: Inside one of the living spacesInside one of the living spaces (Image: Basildon Council)

Residents will receive daily support from Peabody, the Salvation Army, and Basildon Council, who have come together to create a joint management plan and referral process.

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Located at the former ITEC Learning Technologies Centre, Nevendon Place has a maximum three-year stay and is available to people in Basildon who are at imminent risk of rough sleeping.

Each resident has their own living space with private bathrooms and kitchens, plus all the white goods, furniture, and other essential items to allow them to be able to live fully independently.

Echo: Each resident has their own living space with private bathrooms and kitchensEach resident has their own living space with private bathrooms and kitchens (Image: Basildon Council)

The homes are also fully-furnished and exceed minimum building regulations for energy efficiency and sound insulation.

The energy efficient homes aim to dramatically cut the costs associated with traditional temporary accommodation.

A SoloHaus home can reduce electricity bills to just £5 per week.

The facility also includes office space and training rooms on site for support workers, council staff, and supporting agencies.