Billericay High Street could be about to go on-line, after council chiefs revealed they had kick-started talks to open an internet cafe.

Discussions have taken place between Trevor Stansfield, chairman of the town council, and an un-named south Essex company about bringing a one-stop internet site to the town centre.

The move comes as part of a drive to open new youth facilities following a summer of vandalism and under-age drinking.

This also includes a recently rejuvenated attempt by the town council to lead fundraising for a community centre on land next to Hannakins Farm.

Mr Stansfield said: "We have agreed in principle that it would be a good idea to get an internet cafe in Billericay and this company seem to have good intentions.

"At the moment, I have to go away and look at potential sites in the town centre. They want a High Street presence but we have to see if the level of rent and business rates will make it viable."

The cafe is expected to take up to 16 terminals, which would be available for browsing the web and sending e-mails.

Organisers also envisage a snack bar selling drinks, chocolate, sandwiches and jacket potatoes.

In recent years, Billericay has seen a significant rise in new pubs and restaurants including the £1million J D Wetherspoon Blue Boar and Cafe Uno.

Some, like Mr Stansfield, feel the High Street needs a better mix of amenities to suit everyone in the town.

He added: "The library has internet access but we do not feel this would be in competition - the cafe would probably be open from mid morning until late evening."

Peter Murray, from Billericay Chamber of Commerce, said any project which aimed to keep youngsters out of pubs was a step forward.

He said: "It sounds like a good idea however, my reservations would be that Billericay is an expensive High Street and we also need to ensure we don't lose any more retailers from the town."

By Samuel Smith

Reporter's e-mail: sam.smith@notes.newsquest.co.uk

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