WORK has finally begun on transforming a key site close to Billericay train station into new shops and flats more than 20 years after it was first fenced off.

Construction workers have been spotted at “the gateway to Billericay High Street” this week as work begins at the junction of Radford Way and Stock Road.

The plot of land was originally green space before it was fenced off and paved over.

The site has been branded a derelict eyesore ever since, but Billericay West Tory candidate Phil Turner believes the new building could be an “iconic landmark” at the entrance to the High Street.

Planning permission was originally granted in 2001 to build a community centre however work never begun and it will now become shops on the ground floor with two flats above.

Mr Turner said: “It’s taken 20 years to see this eyesore cleared, I have been inundated with thanks from people living around it, people seem to be so happy. I have had texts from people this morning telling me how marvellous and brilliant it is to see people on the site, who are starting preparations for groundwork.

“I think that on that corner, if they get it right, it could be an iconic landmark that would mark the gateway to the High Street.”

Mr Turner added that, on several occasions, the “eyesore” site has been tidied and cleaned up but no work on construction has ever begun.

It has been surrounding by unsightly metal fencing for more than 20-years, frustrating residents living in the area.

“Residents have come to me over years and asked if there was something they can do to make the area pleasing, the developer eventually fenced it off and painted it grey, which was not amazing, but an improvement,” Mr Turner added. “Really though, it has been received really well and something is finally happening to help improve the area, which has been welcomed.”

Other candidates for Billericay West are Scion Butler (Green), Brian Button (Lab) , Anthony Hedley (Con), Peter Lancaster, (Lib Dem), Daniel Lawrence (Con), Chris May (Lib Dem) and Tim Nicklin (Lib Dem). Three councillors will be elected in the Billericay West ward.