New housing for homeless people with mental Health problems has opened in Southend.
The town's mayor, Tony North, planted a tree outside Century House in North Road to mark the launch of the project which is expected to help hundreds of people.
Clients are expected to stay at the complex for up to three months, during which time they will have the chance to develop skills to help them settle in permanent accommodation.
Century House has six self-contained units plus communal facilities, including a lounge and garden.
It is the results of a unique partnership between the borough and county councils, South Essex Health Authority, East Thames Housing Group and the Richmond Fellowship.
Chairman of Southend's housing committee Reg Copley said: "This project shows how working in partnership can enable us to provide a valuable service for this vulnerable group of people.
Growing concern - mayor Tony North plants a tree to officially open Century House, in North Road, Shoebury
Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL
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