House prices in Chelmsford have rocketed by almost nine per cent, fresh figures have revealed.

The Office for National Statistics’ (ONS) latest round of analysis shows the average price of a home costs £314,250.

Average house prices were £288,682 the year before, meaning the 12 month increase comes in at 8,79 per cent.

The spike has caused concern for some renters hoping to get on the property ladder.

Administrator Sara Kenny, 26, rents a room in Springfield Road, and she hopes to buy a flat around Chelmsford with her boyfriend next year.

She said: “It’s great news for some homeowners I bet, but first time buyers are clearly getting priced out of the area.

“If what they (the ONS) say is true then how much will house prices go up next year?

“It is worrying because my friends and family live here, and yes it’s important to have a support network around you, and if we had to move away that would be taken away.

“I’ve lived here all of my life.”

Thurrock saw a 13.25 per cent rise in prices up to an average of £259,901.

In Ipswich, the average price rose 13.3 per cent to £184,514 while residents in Colchester now have to pay an average of £250,365, and in Braintree prices rose to an average of £266,743.

Roy Whitehead, leader of Chelmsford City Council echoed Miss Kenny’s sentiment, but added part of the problem is the speed houses are being built.

He said: “People at the lower end are being priced out, we see that with our staff who have to live outside the area.

“It is a problem, but I would rather this than the other side of spectrum, in an area where shops are closing down.

“If you’re a homeowner it’s great but if you’re a buyer then it can be hard.

“As fast as homes are being built they’re being sold.”