In the news: Cabinet to discuss proposals for £16 million investment into Brooke House

Brooke House is a Grade II listed building in Basildon Town Centre that is home to more than 80 families. 

Significant refurbishment works are required to be undertaken at Brooke House to bring it up to modern day standards, including repairs to the external staircase and roof. The staircase will not be accessible while these works take place and Essex County Fire and Rescue Service has confirmed that it will be necessary to temporarily decant residents whilst these works take place. 

The proposals for the wider £16 million investment would see a full schedule of refurbishment works, including works to the external staircase, roof, window replacements, kitchens, bathrooms and work to enhance energy efficiency of the building. 

Councillor Andrew Schrader, Cabinet Member for Housing and Estate Renewal said "It is essential that we carry out the identified works to Brooke House to ensure the building  is brought up to modern day standards. As the building has listed status, undertaking significant works and ensuring the building is energy efficient is more difficult and costly to implement. 

"We understand the difficult situation this has left many residents in, and we will support them throughout the process - keeping them informed, finding them suitable alternative accommodation and putting in place a package of support measures. We would like to thank residents for their ongoing cooperation, understanding and patience." 

View the Cabinet report, and watch the meeting.

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Published 11 January 2024