A GOVERNMENT minister has welcomed plans for the regeneration of a tired shopping centre.

Greg Clark, minister for communities and local government, paid a visit to the Laindon Centre yesterday afternoon to view proposals to transform the site.

Owners Swan Housing are aiming to submit planning permission in September this year, meaning a decision on whether the project can go ahead could be made in January 2017.

The association has said if the application is accepted, construction work could get underway by October 2017.

Mr Clark believes it is in need of “huge change”, but praised businesses for continuing to operate during times of uncertainty.

He said: “Nobody could see the Laindon Centre and be under any illusion that it needs huge change.

“Clearly the businesses that have been trading here, have been doing so against the odds in many ways due to the environment they are in.

“I think it’s a shame for people in Laindon to have to see this when they are walking through, especially when you consider the potential that is there.

“It’s about time the facility has caught up with the times. The fact it’s already proceeding is great.”

Mr Clark acknowledged the need for infrastructure improvements in south Essex, but insisted authorities need to have adopted local plans- setting out future housing development sites.

He said: “I was very impressed by what Swan had to say on this, as they would be looking to do it in phases so that businesses won’t be disrupted.

“It would be the easiest thing in the world to kick everybody out, bulldoze the whole site and do it all at once.

“They’re showing care and the way they are doing it is impressive.”

The cabinet minister also visited Pier Hill, in Southend, to show his support for Tory candidates in the upcoming local and police and crime commissioner elections.

Phil Turner, leader of Basildon Council, described the centre as “Laindon’s heartbeat” and believes it can draw more people to the borough in years to come.

He said: “Basildon has always had that draw, and we’re seeing people relocating here and property prices are on the rise.

“We’re trying to capitalise on it, and we’re using it to our advantage in terms of getting companies and retail here. The project is really positive and believe it to be the heartbeat of Laindon.”