PLANS are in the pipeline for the first new council houses in Clacton for 30 years.

Tendring Council wants to buy four four-bedroom houses to provide extra homes for local families.

The authority has set aside £1million to buy or build properties over the next two years.

Housing boss Paul Honeywood said: “There is a definite need for four-bedroom houses within the Clacton area and these properties fit the bill.”

Six flats have already been bought in Walton, two houses are being built in Brightlingsea and a derelict house in Clacton is being turned into a family home.

Tendring currently has more than 3,200 council homes.