BASILDON Council is looking for residents’ feedback on the council’s ambitious regeneration project for East Square in the town centre.

The council is investing £50million to build a ten-screen cinema, a host of new restaurants and new landscaping to give the town centre a new look and to drive more night time economy.

Images of the proposals will be on display with council officers and scheme architects available to answer any questions.

Councillor Alan Ball, chairman of the regeneration and environment committee, said: “This is a great opportunity to come down and talk to our officers about these exciting plans which will boost the local economy and provide new jobs for local people.

“We want East Square to be a destination of choice rather than convenience and we want to give residents the chance to see the plans and make comments.”

Andrew Buxton, Labour councillor representing St Martins Square, said: “I encourage residents to come along to the information session and see what the council’s plans for East Square are. I especially encourage residents living in Brooke House to come down and have a look as they live on top of where the cinemas will be.

“We’re very excited about this regeneration project. The town centre looks a little rundown and tired so this will give it a good lift. The cinema will be one of the largest screens in Essex.

“If residents have any thoughts or feedback please share your views with the council, and talk to the people who designed it.”

Mr Buxton said the regeneration project is part of the borough’s plans to bring more night time economy and life into the town centre.

He said: “After 6pm the town centre is pretty dead. It’s not like in Chelmsford or Southend where they still have activities going on. When the night life is busier, it will hopefully bring new businesses.”

David Burton-Sampson, Labour councillor representing St Martins, said: “It’s fantastic that we have got to this stage. It’s important residents go along to the consultation to see the proposal of the plans we have put together for them, and to get their feedback.

“We’ve got lots happening for our residents, it’s very exciting times. The town does need a good revamp, and there are signs the town centre’s economy is coming back.

“We’ve had big businesses, like YOLO Desserts and Ice cream, submitting a planning application to open a shop in the town centre. This means businesses see investment opportunities and growth in the borough.”

Residents can drop in to 11 East Square, in Basildon Town Centre, on Friday, October 13 from noon until 8pm, and Saturday, October 14 from 10am until 4pm.