Building of 63 affordable homes in Dagenham reached a major milestone at a topping out ceremony this week.

Once complete the new homes in Oxlow Lane will be heated by an air source heat pump meaning they will be gas free.

Councillor Darren Rodwell, Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, who met George Legg of builders Mulalley and Jared Birch of Be First at the event, said: “It’s great to see these new affordable homes for local people take shape.

“And as we face a cost-of-living crisis, because they will be gas free tenants’ energy bills will be more stable and withstand the volatility of gas prices which we’re seeing now.”

George Legg, Mulalley Construction Director New Build Division said: “Mulalley is proud to have worked in partnership with Be First to help them deliver the Oxlow Lane scheme and create these high quality and much needed new affordable homes to support the local community.”

Jared Birch, Deputy Construction Director said: “Despite the massive increase to commodity prices in the construction sector, Be First is continuing to deliver affordable homes for the people of Barking and Dagenham. This is because of excellent forward planning and outstanding co-operation by contractors such as Mulalley.”

The 63 homes will be rented out a low as £168 a week at today’s prices for a one bedroom flat.

The development is due to be completed by December 2023