A "DILAPIDATED" row of empty homes and a tyre wholesaler have been placed on the market for a whopping £900,000 ahead of plans to build 17 flats.

The project has been described as a "rare and exciting development opportunity" after Southend Council gave the green light to build a four-storey block of flats on West Road, Westcliff.

According to the application, the buildings currently on the site are "dilapidated”, and the vacant residential homes are in “need of refurbishment”.

Work is yet to begin on the site and now the project has been listed on the market for £900,000.

Kevin Buck, councillor responsible for the Prittlewell ward, hailed it as a good development opportunity.

He added: “Having received planning permission very recently, “I am pleased to see this commercial site being advertised for sale for housing.

“This new development will bring much needed regeneration with 21st century modern homes.

“I look forward to the site being bought quickly by a developer, so that this much needed housing can be built’.

The site is currently occupied by Southern Tyre Wholesalers alongside the empty homes, with bosses hoping to relocate.

The 17 flats will be a mix of six one-bedroom flats, nine two-bedroom flats, and two three-bedroom flats.

Estate Agents Gilbert and Rose, which is marketing the development, stated on the listing that it is a “highly sought-after location”.

They said: “A rare and exciting development opportunity located in vibrant Southend. This site comes with planning permission approved for the demolition of existing buildings and the construction of a part three/part four storey building.

“The new development will comprise 17 self-contained flats.

“Situated in a highly desirable area, this project offers great potential for developers looking to capitalise on Southend’s thriving property market “Whether for sale or rental, this is a fantastic chance to take advantage of the high demand for housing in this thriving location.

“Don’t miss out on this excellent investment opportunity.”