A multi-million pound complex is set to breathe new life into the neglected area around Basildon railway station.

The multi-storey proposal includes 143 flats with a "penthouse" floor, shops, businesses and food court.

Developers want to transform the derelict former Lookers car salesroom in Southernhay, opposite the Beehive pub, into a nine-storey block featuring a ground-level mall and eight floors of flats.

The acre-wide development will also accommodate around 100 car parking spaces.

Peter Paterson, president of the Basildon Business Association, said: "We are delighted to hear about this new project.

"A combined business and residential package represents an excellent use of this particular space. In addition, anything which brings residents into the heart of town, along with extra space for business, is going to be a plus for the Basildon economy."

Published Thursday May 27, 2004

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