A HIGH Street’s closure on market days, along with improved bus and doctors’ services are on campaigners’ wish lists for the next stage of Wickford’s regeneration.

The calls come as Basildon Council revealed it aims to kick-off discussions next month for phase two of the town’ revamp.

So far no concrete plans have been put forward by the authority.

David Harrison, mayor of Basildon and leader of Wickford Independents, believes that the High Street holds the key to the second stage of the town’s regeneration being a success.

He said: “The High Street should be closed on Friday and Saturday for the market

“I think there should be more use of the road behind Suttons, Iceland so that buses don’t use the High Street. If they were to use that road it would serve people better as there are links to the High Street, train station and the Wick, all in just one area.

“This isn’t anything new as the idea was first discussed thirty years ago, we have relaunched discussions with the bus companies and they are in favour of it too.

“I also think there needs to be improvements made to healthcare in the town, and with us working alongside the NHS.

“There is no actual increase in the GP services in the town, even with the work on the health facility on the site of the old market.

“There are plenty of things people want to see, including more shops and facilities.”

Phase one of the regeneration saw the creation of “Market Lane”, linking the former market site and the High Street, along with work to refurbish the town’s swimming pool and create a fitness suite in a £2.4million scheme.

It has also seen work start on a £2 million project to build a health facility will include eight examination rooms and three treatment rooms replacing The London Road Surgery.

Apex Contractors were appointed to carry out the design and build the facility after planning permission was granted in July 2015.

Completion is expected in July 2017.

In addition to the consultation rooms the plans include interview and training rooms as well as modern reception and waiting areas.

Derek Harrison, 71, from the Wickford Action Group, believes getting any further improvements to health facilities in Wickford as part of the regeneration could prove difficult.

However, Mr Harrison believes work in the High Street are workable.

He said: “Whilst healthcare needs to be addressed, this is something the NHS would need to do.

“It would not necessarily come directly from the council.

“I think there is a safety aspect too with any work on the High Street. The surface in the centre of the road which was laid as part of the first stage of the regeneration makes it look as though it is for pedestrians only.

“So it can get quite dangerous with people walking into the road.

“It would be far simpler to just have it closed off.