HOME owners in an iconic town centre block of flats in Basildon could each be hit with a £51,000 repair bill.

The 13 private leaseholders in Brooke House look set to be made to pay the fee – despite their flats being valued at only about £85,000.

The cash is needed as part of a multi-million pound overhaul of the GradeII listed block.

But people in the other 71 flats, which are owned by Basildon Council, will have their bills paid by the authority.

One of 13 leaseholders made the discovery when they tried to sell their home. The buyer was told he could expect to be liable for £51,000 and pulled out of the deal.

The council said it had not officially decided how much it will cost to replace windows and doors and improve corridors and external walls.

The fears over costs were aired at a meeting of the Brooke House Residents’ Association, set up to discuss the costs as well as antisocial behaviour, which has generated more repair bills.

St Martin’s ward councillor Phil Rackley, who has been supporting the group, said: “This is a charge hanging over the residents.

“The charge is tied into the lease holder’s agreements, but it is the extent of it that is the worry.”

Leaseholders were also angry at having to pay to fix areas damaged by vandals.

A spokesman for the council said the leaseholders would be able to pay the bill over three, five or ten years and there would be favourable interest rates on loans – but only if they met the criteria.

Tony Ball, leader of Basildon Council, said: “Under the terms of their lease, it is the responsibility of all leaseholders across the borough to pay a reasonable proportion towards the cost of any work which, in the case of Brooke House, would include the replacement of windows, fire doors and works to external walls and corridors.

“However, no figures have been agreed as to what contribution leaseholders would have to pay if this work was carried out.

“The council appreciates many residents are feeling the pinch, but this work would need to be carried out and it is the responsibility of the leaseholders to pay their share of the works.

“However, the council has introduced extended payment options for leaseholders to help spread the cost of any works.”

Mr Ball wants to turn the block into luxury apartments. Another option is to turn it into a hotel.