PLANS to transform a shopping centre into almost 3,000 new homes will create 581 new jobs as Basildon builds its way out of the Covid pandemic.

Basildon Council has drafted in developers Sovereign Centros and Leslie Jones Architecture to unveil bold new plans for the heart of Basildon.

The major proposals include 2,800 homes around the Eastgate Shopping Centre, with up to 481 jobs set to be created in the construction process.

There would also be up to 101 jobs in shops, services and other businesses once the development is completed.

The number of shops in the Eastgate Centre will be significantly scaled back.

Detailed plans have been outlined on the development for the first time and state the town will benefit from an annual £67million cash injection.

There would be studio flats making up 5 per cent of the development, with one-bedroom homes making up 45 per cent of the plans.

Proposals also say two-bed homes for three people would make up 25 per cent of the development, while two bedroom flats for four people would make up 20 per cent of the new homes.

Flats with three bedrooms for five people would be 5 per cent of the proposals.

Early plans suggest there would be 411 new car parking spaces, with 250 spaces shared with the Eastgate Shopping Centre.

If agreed the amount of affordable housing would be about 70 per cent affordable rented at 60 per cent of market value and 30 per cent for intermediate housing.

In its vision the plans would see the number of shops at Eastgate Centre hugely scaled back.

They would be replaced with a “multi-use space” which includes retail, workplaces, restaurants, cafes and leisure facilities.

The huge plans to transform Basildon town centre also include proposals for 2,800 homes in a safe, green community.

The “Eastern Gardens” area to the east will have nine acres of green space, with 3,000 trees, and the 2,800 homes would cater for people buying their first home, through to larger family units, elderly housing and assisted living.

A planning statement says: “The ‘Eastern Gardens’ area to the east will have nine acres of green space, with 3,000 trees, and the 2,800 homes would cater for people buying their first home, through to larger family units, elderly housing and assisted living.

“In summary, the proposed development constitutes a significant regeneration opportunity for Basildon. It will promote a healthy, successful place for people to live in, work in and visit.

“It will provide the homes, jobs and services that people need, reducing environmental risks and delivering well designed buildings and urban spaces which will create the conditions for healthy, active lifestyles.

“It is a landmark redevelopment, which will form a key role in shaping Basildon’s future.”

The plans have now been submitted to Basildon Council.

The authority’s development control committee will have the final say over whether the plans get the green light.