MAJOR improvements to a Basildon town centre tower block have been hit by delays due to rising costs, it has been revealed. 

Basildon Council had hoped that scaffolding would be put around Brooke House and work would behind in April 2023 - however this is yet to happen. 

The works are set to include infilling the open area beneath Brooke House to create a lobby with a new, fully-accessible entrance.

The project will also create a new lift providing access to the lift lobby and the new roof terrace.

Andrew Schrader, Conservative councillor responsible for housing, said after extensive site surveys the scope of the works and associated costs are significantly more than initially planned.

He said: “We have recently distributed a newsletter to Brooke House residents, thanking them for their patience regarding the planning refurbishment works.

“Officers have been working hard behind the scenes and extensive site surveys have been undertaken as part of the preparatory works.

“The results of these surveys means the scope of the works and associated costs are now more significant than initially planned and budgeted for.

“We understand that a delay to starting these works may be disappointing, but it is important the works deliver value for money for our tenants and leaseholders.

“Therefore, we are considering ways in which this can be achieved.

“We will keep Brooke House residents updated on progress through our regular newsletters.”  

The plans for a revamp at Brooke House were first agreed back in June 2022.

The Grade II listed building in Basildon town centre needed the works to improve the “overall safety” for residents while making the block more accessible.

The works will also include associated repairs, refurbishment and decoration works throughout the building. 

The Echo did ask for an updated timescale of the works following the announcement of delays, but were unable to get a date.

However, Mr Schrader added: “The conversations are happening now, and I hope to be able to give residents a further update shortly.”