THE DEVELOPERS of a 144-home retirement complex set to replace Southend’s Nazareth House convent have released images of how the inside could look.

Echo: The complex will feature a communal lounge where residents can meet and socialise with their neighbours.The complex will feature a communal lounge where residents can meet and socialise with their neighbours. (Image: McCarthy Stone)

Demolition is currently underway at Nazareth House on London Road.

Originally established in 1873 to house sick children and the elderly, Nazareth House closed in 2020. It followed a battle between the Nazareth Care Charitable Trust and Southend Council over whether to demolish and rebuild the convent.

Echo: An example of the kitchen-diner setup available in some apartments.An example of the kitchen-diner setup available in some apartments. (Image: McCarthy Stone)

Planning permission for a retirement complex to be built by developer McCarthy Stone was granted in May last year. On Monday, work began to demolish the existing building to make way for two new blocks of retirement flats.

Echo: The apartments will feature 'tasteful décor', like in this living room.The apartments will feature 'tasteful décor', like in this living room. (Image: McCarthy Stone)

McCarthy Stone has published photos of similar developments, to provide an insight into how its newest complex will look.

Designed to meet the needs of those over 60 years of age, apartments are set to combine “intelligent, ergonomic design” with “tasteful decor”. They will sit alongside communal spaces, such as landscape gardens, a guest suite, and a lounge for social events and activities.

Echo: Fit for a king or queen - an example of the bedrooms planned to be offered.Fit for a king or queen - an example of the bedrooms planned to be offered. (Image: McCarthy Stone)

Demolition of the existing complex is expected to take up to 18 weeks. Construction of the new complex is set to begin in the summer.