MORE than £1million could be spent on a series of new housing projects aimed at regenerating Jaywick.

Town Hall bosses hope investing in new homes will breathe new life into the deprived area – officially listed as the most underprivileged ward in England.

Tendring Council housing chief Paul Honeywood said the council was stepping in because the Government had failed to live up to promises to help the ward, especially the Brooklands and Grassland areas.

He said: “Year after year Jaywick residents have been promised millions of pounds in investment from central government and this has not materialised.

“The simple truth is that cash is not available and this will never happen.

“Investment from private developers is the answer but they must have the confidence to invest which is why we want to get the ball rolling.”

The council has had initial talks with a number of landowners about purchasing sites in Jaywick, paving the way for more council homes.

The council is not identifying sites in case it harms on-going negotiations.

Tendring has already set aside a £1million cash pot for new homes, but could borrow even more money if needed.