SOUTHEND Council should press for powers to build new homes to tackle the town's housing crisis, according to Labour spokesman David Norman.

Mr Norman, who represents the town's Victoria ward, has welcomed the Government's recently published Green Paper on housing, which outlines why the country is in dire need of more affordable homes.

He said the planned policy should see more homes for rental, or part ownership, built in Southend.

It comes at a time when the cost of the cheapest houses are now seven times the average local income.

Mr Norman said: "This is vital in Southend, where rising house prices have put buying properties beyond the reach of many young couples and families.

"Figures are showing the cost of the cheapest property in Southend is now about seven times the average local income.

"Every week I am in touch with young couples who are living in cramped and unsuitable accommodation, and in desperate need of council housing.

"As a result of the policies which have been followed over the past 25 years, there are more than 5,500 people on the council's housing list. Only about 150 two or three-bedroom council homes become vacant for reletting each year.

"I hope the Government will give councils powers to build properties again.

"I shall be pressing for the council to use any new powers to tackle the town's growing housing crisis."

The council's housing cabinet member, Mark Flewitt, was not available for comment.