RESIDENTS have backed Basildon Council’s plans to regenerate Wickford.

A total of 60 people filled in consultation forms given out on a stall during the town’s Christmas Market.

They were asked four questions, with 87 per cent of respondents agreeing they supported plans to spruce up and re-paving the High Street.

The same percentage also backed proposals to move the town’s market into the High Street, despite opposition from traders. A total of 78 per cent also backed plans to make empty shops look more attractive by putting banners on them.

Malcolm Buckley, councillor responsible for regeneration, said: “The events were very well attended and I am glad to see we got so many positive responses to our plans. We had 60 forms filled in, but hundreds more attended and gave is their views, verbally. Most were positive.”