Regenerating Town Centres

Four of the District town centres will undergo major change. A master plan for Pitsea town centre will help to coordinate investment and development including new homes and employment opportunities. Plans have also been approved for a mixed-use scheme in Laindon town centre.

Wickford town centre is already seeing the benefits of its own master plan. Approved by the Council in February 2006, up to 500 new homes will be created including new riverside living and a public sector quarter. The value of development exceeds £120 million and private investment has already been forthcoming.

The biggest project in the District is Basildon town centre. Already the largest town centre shopping destination in South Essex, Basildon has set itself the target of becoming a top 30 retail destination in England, and the number one in Essex. A Development Framework has been approved which offers a number of exciting development opportunities. The Partnership and Council is seeking a strategic development partner to deliver the wide scale regeneration.

And whilst not subject to immediate plans, Billericay with its mix of higher value retail and leisure will continue to play a role in supporting one of the most affluent towns in the Thames Gateway Districts.