STACKABLE modular homes are being installed at two disused sites in Chelmsford in a bid to help tackle the city’s homelessness problem.

The 18 self-contained housing units will provide short term accommodation for families and individuals.

It is expected that all 18 units will be in place by the end of November, with a further few weeks required to complete the finishing works on-site.

Chelmsford City Council will be rehoming people to the units as soon they are ready for occupation.

The units will provide a stable, safe and secure environment for occupants to reside.

The accommodation will enable residents to remain living in their local area, close to their support networks of family and friends, and allow them to remain within a reasonable distance of their place of work and their children’s schools.

During this unsettling time, their quality of life will be greatly improved.

Cabinet Member for strategic housing, Councillor Paul Hutchinson, said: “I am delighted that we are now at the point of installation.

“The units were factory-assembled and are fully equipped with all mod cons.

“Over the last few years in Chelmsford we have seen a significant growth in house building but there has also been a huge increase in the cost of housing.

“We have seen a year on year increase in the number of people applying to the city council for help with their housing.

“Our aim with these new developments is to provide safe and dignified accommodation to residents in need while we help them to find something more permanent.”

The project has been designed to be cost-effective and is anticipated to save the council a significant amount each year compared to the cost of renting additional accommodation.

Innovative modular construction methods were used which provide quality accommodation.

A number of councils have expressed an interest in the scheme and are now looking to adopt the city council’s model.