Blackshots Updates

We're redeveloping the Blackshots Estate in Grays to provide better housing for residents. As part of this work, we will be demolishing its 3 tower blocks.

Visit this page to keep up to date with the latest news regarding this project.

March 2024

Blackshots Estate redevelopment project was presented at Cabinet on 13th March 2024.

Visit our website for full details: Cabinet March 2024

Minutes -

1. Cabinet agreed the design developed to date based on consultation and public engagement as a basis for procuring the next stage of the redevelopment.

2. Cabinet agreed to progress to the next steps as recommended below based on the Business Case developed by the council’s advisers Avison Young.

3. The council progressed the Blackshots project following the self-delivery approach.

4. Subject to Government agreement to borrowing, approval was given to launch a procurement process to obtain a main contractor for further design and construction and to delegate to the Corporate Director for Adults Housing and Health in consultation with the Leader, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and Housing, Commissioners and Section 151 Officer, the decision to make the necessary contract awards.

5. In accordance with the business case model, agree to establish a budget of £70.385m for the projected estimated cost of the works to be funded by HRA borrowing in accordance with the proposed HRA business and capital programme, subject to DHLUC approval.

6. Approved the procurement of relevant advisers for the council’s client technical team and delegate to the Corporate Director of Adults, Housing and Health in consultation with the Cabinet member for Children’s Services and Housing the award of contracts.

7. Noted that a budget of £700,000 has been identified from within the existing Housing Revenue Account General Reserves to support the provision of the necessary advisers which will be accommodated within the existing HRA balance or funded from reserve should it prove necessary.