A housing association is set to roll out keyless technology across 550 of its apartment blocks.

Eastlight Community Homes, based in Braintree, plans to introduce the new technology in 14,500 of its homes across the east of England over the next 12 months.

The technology, developed by Norwegian company Unloc, enables residents to access their homes using a mobile app.

The move follows a successful trial in 60 blocks, which saw a reduction in operating costs and increased efficiency.

It is hoped that the keyless access will enable easier access for cleaners, fire inspection officers, and residents who have lost their keys or forgotten access codes.

Unloc's chairman, Neil Sinclair, said: "It has been great to see the difference it has made to Eastlight and the practical and cost benefits this technology has delivered."

Charlotte Todd, executive property director at Eastlight Community Homes, said: "By utilising this technology, we are transforming how we access our buildings.

"The pilot scheme was very successful, and we are very excited to introduce this technology to all our homes, as soon as possible."

Eastlight hopes the new technology will save more than £300,000 in annual labour costs.