Further details have emerged of a program to build new council houses.

The first council properties to be built in Epping Forest for 30 years have been approved for Harveyfields in Waltham Abbey, where 30 homes will replace garages.

This is part of a £19million scheme to build 120 homes in the next six years.

Existing properties will also be converted to boost the council’s housing stock.

A total of 20 flats currently used as sheltered housing in Marden Close, Chigwell, have been earmarked.

The Harveyfields development will begin in June, with applications for a further four sites in Roundhills, Waltham Abbey, submitted.

The rents will be set at 80 per cent of market rates, with a cap of £180 per week reviewed annually.

The council has contracted East Thames housing association and architects Pellings to carry out the work.

There is currently 1,500 people on the waiting list after the 7,000 people previously registered for a council home were asked to re-apply under tougher criteria.