AMBITIOUS plans for more than 100 flats on land vacant for more than a decade could finally get the green light.

Basildon Council is set to back Explore Living’s proposals for 122 homes at 3 to 31 Runwell Road, Wickford, next Tuesday.

Planning officials have recommended approval of the plan, saying the empty site does not benefit the town.

Residents are also calling for an end to the decade-long saga.

The plan includes two six-storey blocks with 122 flats, 76 one-bed and 46 two-bed homes with 113 parking spaces.

The officer’s report states: “The site is vacant and makes no positive contribution to Wickford having remained hoarded for over ten years.

“The site can accommodate a building of height and already has planning permission for a five-storey block.

“The proposed development at six storeys would be comparable in height, scale, massing and overall impact to the extant planning permission.”

The report says the developer should offer various cash contributions, including £501,908 for affordable housing, £59,800 towards healthcare, £100,000 for the Dick Patmore Memorial Sports Ground, and £107,731 towards primary school places.

Clare Gregory, from Wickford, said: “This has been ongoing for more than ten years and it needs a joined-up plan between the developer, Basildon Council and most importantly residents to try and find a solution that works for all.

“My preference would be to force the developer to build the original approved softer looking design, with 84 flats.

“If they refuse they threaten to compulsory purchase the site back from developer and then build good quality houses on the site for social housing.”

The last plan for 158 homes and 108 parking spaces was refused in September last year.

The developer was contacted for comment.