Proposals to build 56 affordable new homes have been agreed by Barking and Dagenham’s planning committee.

The plans to build the homes in Woodward Road Dagenham, include redeveloping a locally listed former library, which is currently being used as a furniture workshop.

Councillor Cameron Geddes, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Social Housing, said: “This decision gives the go-ahead for 56 much needed affordable homes for local people in the heart of Becontree and brings a glorious old library back into community use.”

The 56 new homes include 32 one-bedroom, 10 two-bedroom, 1 three-bedroom apartments and 13 three-bedroom houses, with rents starting at £168 per week.

The plans also feature car parking and 108 cycle spaces.

A range of different options are possible for the library and talks are underway with a number of organisations about the potential to put it to community use. Further details will be available in Summer 2020.