A DEVELOPER has unveiled plans to open a new retail park and supermarket in Basildon.

Rex Developments want to built four shops, as well as the supermarket, in Miles Gray Road- just yards from the existing Pipps Hill Retail Park.

Pipps Hill is home to an Asda, as well as a B&Q, Halfords and Costa Coffee.

The Miles Gray Road site is currently used by Gilbarco, a fuel dispenser firm, with the developer aiming to build the company new premises just behind the park.

So far no confirmation has been given as to which supermarket is aiming to open.

David Sheppard, Ukip councillor for Fryerns ward, has given his backing to the plans, welcoming more business and jobs to the borough.

He said: “I am not against the proposals, provided no jobs are lost as a result.

“It will be good for Asda to have some competition, seeing as we have two of their stores already in Basildon.

“The other thing of course is that it’s on a brownfield site, so it means it won’t be going on green belt. I think as long as businesses don’t close as a result of it, then it’s a good thing.

“There’s also the jobs that the stores would create, and provided its bringing a good economy into Basildon, then I’d welcome it.”

In its application, Rex Developments said its proposals aim to make best use of the area and avoid overcrowding with neighbouring Pipps Hill.

The developer said: “The buildings have been positioned in order to make the most efficient use of the site while at the same time addressing the street frontages of Miles Gray Road, Crompton Close and Luckyn Lane.

“The existing site access off Miles Gray Road has been enlarged in order to provide access to the public parking for the retail units.

“This will consist of a right filter lane entry and a left only exit lane. A new vehicle egress positon is required to exit the retail parking to allow a route from the proposed retail terrace across to Pipps Hill Retail Park. This will consist of two exit only lanes. The food store has been positioned to give a high degree of prominence when viewed from Cranes Farm Road.

“This increases site safety and increases security for all of the tenants. The relocated Gilbarco Unit is set back from both Crompton Close and Luckyn Lane.

“This splits visitor parking and servicing with the main access to the building being from Crompton Close where there is greater visibility for the unit.”