Hadleigh Abbeyfield House to cost more than £2.7 million

Castle Point Council is seeking an extra £821,000 to complete the transformation of Abbeyfield House in Chapel Lane, Hadleigh.

The scheme is also being supported by £218,400 from the Disabled Facilities Grant, which funds adaptations for people with additional needs.

The project was originally budgeted at £1.9 million but has since risen to £2.72 million after the council was forced to appoint a new contractor when surveys revealed more extensive work was required.

Council papers state the development will ultimately deliver savings by reducing the current gap between private rents and Housing Benefit rates.

The building used to be a care home. (Image: Martin England)

The authority bought Abbeyfield House in January last year for £1.1 million, with plans to create 19 self-contained units for people “facing housing difficulties”, similar to existing provision in Canvey and Tarpots.

However, the rising costs of the development have sparked criticism.

Hadleigh resident Martin England branded the increase “unbelievable”.

“The fact that the renovation costs now exceed the cost of the property is worrying,” he said.

“Our councillors said this redevelopment would be a major step in addressing ever-increasing numbers of households now facing homelessness.

“I think the residents of Hadleigh deserve an apology.”

Concerns have also been raised over site security after a break-in by “three or four” people in the early hours of May 24 at the now-derelict building.

Tape was used to 'secure' the site after the reported break in. (Image: Supplied)

Police officers attended the property within 15 minutes but did not find anyone on site.

Deputy council leader Warren Gibson said the intruders are not believed to have accessed most of the property.

A spokesperson for Castle Point Council said: “This scheme will deliver long-term value for residents and taxpayers.

“By bringing temporary accommodation into the borough, the council will reduce its reliance on expensive out‑of‑area placements.

“The project is expected to deliver ongoing savings of around £95,000 per year once operational, helping to reduce pressure on budgets over time.

“It also means fewer families being placed away from their support networks, schools and jobs - something that has a social cost as well as a financial one.”