COUNCIL bosses have apologised for sending residents a "confusing" letter, which created fears they would have to shell out thousands of pounds on repairs.

Barry Hughes, 65, from Royal Court, Laindon, received a letter from St Georges Community Housing Association stating it intended to carry out refurbishments at the tower blocks, despite them being earmarked for demolition.

Although Mr Hughes owns the leasehold on the flat, he would be responsible for a share of any work carried out.

He said: "The sort of work the letter mentioned could run into a few million pounds and I would be left with a bill of £100,000.

"In London, leaseholders have been left with similar bills and ended up losing their homes and having to rent them back. It doesn't make any sense because they have put plans in to rebuild the flats."

Tony Ball, councillor for housing, moved to ease concerns.

He said: "This letter was a legal requirement, in case our proposals for Royal Court to be rebuilt do not get planning permission.

"There will have to be some health and safety work in connection with lighting, but we are still in favour of the redevelopment plans."

Mr Ball said leaseholders from other parts of the district had also raised fears about having to pay substantial amounts towards refurbishment of their flats blocks as they are brought up to the Government's decent homes standards.

He said: "I have heard of cases in London where people have been left with bills up to £50,000, but I am told by St Georges we will not be talking about that sort of figure. I am waiting for clarification."

Council spokesman Chris Johnson apologised for the confusing letter.