The unpaid bill for Basildon's glass belltower has soared past the £1million mark, it was revealed today.

It means the cost of the infamous project has doubled since it emerged builders hadn't been paid for their work.

The belltower, in St Martin's Square, has only been used on rare occasions since its completion three years ago because the Parish Church Council of St Martin's Church still hasn't paid for it.

But it emerged today that talks between the council and creditors could soon come up with a solution to repay the debt.

The soaring cost has been blamed on extra interest payments, increasing the burden on the council to attract sponsors and benefactors.

Peter Reid, vice-chairman of the council said: "We are talking very positively with all the creditors, but it is a question of finalising the details."

Published Friday, December 13, 2002

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