New plans to build retirement flats in South Green have sparked relief that it will see an end to proposals to build a supermarket on the same site.
Developers have submitted plans into Basildon District Council to knock down The Burstead Plough pub in Southend Road and replace it with a three story block of 31 retirement flats with car parking.
Councillors said the move will be met by 'welcome relief' from campaigning residents who were against building an Aldi supermarket.
Bosses at the supermarket giant made several attempts to build a branch with an 81-space car park. An appeal was lodged to the Secretary of State and villagers were jubilant when the company pulled out of the appeal in July.
Burstead representative, Cllr Kevin Blake, said the retirement flats were more desirable than the supermarket: "I welcome these plans in principal. I haven't seen the detailed plans but flats are more suitable than a supermarket, as long as they are in keeping with the surrounding area.
"The Aldi proposals caused of a lot of concerns among traders."
Aldi submitted two planning applications into Basildon Council to develop The Burstead Plough site. At heated council meetings in July and October, both were refused.
Great Burstead and South Green Parish Council were delighted when they withdrew the appeal.
Published Friday April 9, 2004
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