PLANS to regenerate Pitsea are one step closer as the council ask residents to share their views.

It comes as a public consultation was launched for proposals that would see tired facilities replaced with modern fit-for-purpose buildings and new homes.

The new project will focus on land currently occupied by The Place leisure centre, Pitsea Library and Pitsea Area Housing Office.

The Place is currently under-used by the local community and would require an unsustainable level of investment to make it fit for purpose.

Council members have agreed the principle of the scheme’s design and a timescale for action which aims to see work start on site in January 2018 and completed by January 2020.

Proposals have been drawn up to provide a high-quality and flexible community space in its place, with leisure facilities being expanded at Eversley Leisure Centre.

Stuart Sullivan, cabinet member for resources, said: “In recent years, Pitsea has undergone a significant transformation to become a modern and thriving town centre. These new proposals will build on that success, replacing under-used buildings with modern facilities catering to residents’ needs.

“As a council, we are determined to spearhead major schemes such as this across the borough. By agreeing a timetable for action, we are demonstrating we mean business when it comes to investing in our town centres.”

The revamped site would also include a new Pitsea Library, subject to successful negotiations with Essex County Council, which runs the library and around 42 new homes.

Leader of Basildon Council, Phil Turner added: “This is fantastic news for Pitsea. It builds on our pledge for more regeneration and makes sure Pitsea gets its fair share of resources and investment.”

In addition to the community and library space, the scheme proposes around 42 new homes, split across The Place site and the former Pitsea Area Housing Office site.

Gavin Callaghan, Basildon Labour leader and Pitsea councillor, said: “It lacks vision and any understanding of the 21st century. I would urge the council to think again because these plans are not good enough.

“The council were going to create a major community hub including a medical centre and they have failed. The full extent of the plans has been cheap nonsense that includes a library, a little space for the community and flats. That is not regeneration, it is just more of the same.

“There is nothing in the plans for young people, nothing to boost and add to the nighttime economy.”

Basildon Council is also continuing discussions with NHS partners regarding any opportunities to re-provide the Dipple Medical Centre.