A development at Brocklebank Lodge in Becontree Avenue which will feature 53 new homes for local residents, including 15 for people who have Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), was hailed by the Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, Councillor Darren Rodwell, as highly innovative.

Cllr Rodwell said: “Housing needs for people with ASD are unique and not easily met, often we have to house these residents outside the borough.

“But thanks to these plans we can make sure people with ASD stay in the borough and closer to their families, while living in a modern and bespoke home which meets their needs.

“This development is a borough first and shows our commitment to social inclusion and that we truly are one borough.”

Marcia Kirlew, Development Manager at Be First, who will be managing the development, said: “Be First is not just about bricks and mortar, we not only build quality homes for local people, we also build communities too.”

The remaining 38 homes will be made available to local people at below market price rent

The plans will involve the demolition of Brocklebank Lodge a former old people’s home.