Basildon Council’s Planning Committee last night (Tuesday 11 September) approved an application for the construction of a new college campus on the site of the current Basildon Market.
The existing buildings on the land will be demolished to make way for a three-storey campus to be used by South Essex College, which will focus on IT, digital technologies and science provision. The development is also set to include car parking, public open space, a substation, shops, access and landscaping.
This marks the next key step in the transformation of the town centre, with a replacement market in St Martin’s Square nearing completion and significant public realm improvements underway. In July, proposals to transform East Square with a 10-screen cinema operated by Empire Cinemas and six new restaurants were approved by the Planning Committee.
Councillor David Dadds, Vice Chairman of Basildon Council’s Regeneration Committee, said: “I am delighted that full planning permission has been granted for this state-of-the-art campus in Market Square, which will provide fantastic opportunities for young people from across the borough and beyond. We are committed to creating opportunities for all and doing all we can to support education and employment providers.”
Anthony McGarel, Deputy Principal and Chief Executive of the College, added: “We’re delighted that our exciting plans to deliver high quality education and training in the heart of Basildon town centre has been recognised by the council. We’re excited to get going with the development to equip young local people with the skills to work in the growing digital technology industry.
“This decision is a significant milestone in our ambitious regeneration plans for Basildon, which will bring more life into the town centre and boost the economy. We are confident that it will become a destination of choice rather than convenience.”
