The eventual closure of a substandard old people's home could mean the loss of another 24 Southend Council jobs, it has been revealed.

The council has been looking at closing Saxon Lodge, in Smith Street, Shoebury, for more than a year because it fails to meet building standards.

The possible loss of jobs at the home is revealed in a footnote to the adult community services figures as part of this year's budget.

Nigel Holdcroft, cabinet member for community services, said: "It is unfortunate this has been mentioned as part of the budget, as it really has nothing to do with it.

"The decision to close Saxon Lodge was made more than a year ago.

"However, it is not something we are entering into hurriedly and nothing will be done until something suitable has been found for all the existing residents."

Mr Holdcroft said he did not think the closure of the home would happen for at least another 12 months.

He added: "I am fairly confident there will not be 24 redundancies, as we will be seeking to find other positions for the staff."

Clare Wormald, Southend branch secretary of the local government union Unison, said she was concerned about the impact of the proposed reductions in the adult social care budget, and the move away from residential care.

She added: "At the moment, we have to look closely at what is involved and what the impact on our members will be.

"Each year, cuts are having an increasing effect on those members of staff who are left at the council."