BASILDON could become a centre for research into eco-homes and zero carbon towns, the Government has revealed.

The district's plan to kickstart environmentally-friendly home schemes was backed by Housing Minister Yvette Cooper at the Thames Gateway Forum.

The town's council and the Basildon Renaissance Partnership are currently working with campaign group Renewables East to ensure new homes built in the district are as green as possible.

Mrs Cooper called for all homes across the Thames Gateway, including existing ones, to become carbon neutral.

She said: "We have the most ambitious timetable anywhere in the world to build zero carbon homes.

"We also hope all houses in the region after 2016 will have zero carbon emissions. This is a huge challenge and we are not just looking at houses, but an eco region with eco pubs and clubs."

Adam Keating, from the Basildon Renaissance Partnership, added. "It is excellent the Government has focused on this area.

"We are working with Renewables East to make Basildon a key area for research into eco technology."

Plans for a green grid linking parks and open space across the region also continue with architect Terry Farrell.