New residents have collected the keys to their new homes just in time for Christmas.

People on the housing waiting list were able to move into their brand new rented homes in Chelmsford city centre, which form the first phase of development by housing association Colne.

Delivery driver Marc Redmond, 36, and his fiancée Sue Hart, a hotel worker, are over the moon to have a spacious home for their four children in time for Christmas.

Marc, who was living in Springfield while on the waiting list, said: “We have been waiting for a bigger place and we love our new house.

“There is lots of room for all the kids and it is so nice to be settled for Christmas.

“The development is fantastic, so close to the City, and I can see some of the preserved Marconi buildings from our windows, it is nice to see history preserved.”

Chelmsford Mayor Bob Villa and Mayoress Valerie Villa handed over the keys and met residents.

They were joined by Councillor Duncan Lumley, Chelmsford City Council’s Cabinet Member for Strategic Housing, Colne’s chair Tim Young and chief executive Mark Powell Davies plus Neighbourhood Officer Clare Bennett.

Mayor Villa said: “It’s great to see local people moving into these new homes before Christmas.

“Chelmsford City Council is pleased to be working with Colne to give the local population new homes at an affordable rent."

Mr Young said: “These new homes at an affordable rent offer easy access to the city centre and its facilities.

“I hope all residents will enjoy a happy Christmas and the stability their new home will bring them in future.”

More than 5,000 households are on the housing register for affordable rented homes in Chelmsford.