A NEW discount shop is set to replace a former furniture and clothing business in Basildon town centre, with at least seven budget stores now based in the area.

One Below, a pound shop-style store, is set to open in the former Laura Ashley at Basildon’s Westgate Shopping Park, with eager shoppers spotting plans on the inside of the empty shop.

It comes after Stacks Discount Store opened in the former Next site in the Eastgate Shopping Centre inside the last two weeks.

Residents raised concerns about too many pound shops and discount stores in the town centre.

Paul Noakes, 74, chairman of the Noak Bridge Residents’ Association, said “I think it is disappointing to see so many of these businesses opening, but I guess I would rather that than boarded up shops.

“There is an oversupply of these sort of businesses and I think most people feel that way too. I don’t think people will go to these stores and I think people prefer to go to Lakeside or Chelmsford.

“I do not think it will bring people in and we have so many stores like this in the town. I do think the town centre needs smartening up and is scruffy.”

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It comes as a new pawnbroker called Ramsdens is preparing to open in the former H Samuel, with a notice placed on the shutters of the former jeweller this week.

There are now seven discount stores in Basildon, including Poundland, the new Stacks Discount Store, a Savers store, B&M, QD, Poundstretcher and Home Bargains.

Kevin Blake, Tory deputy leader of Basildon Council, welcomed the new plans.

He said: “These firms do not go into business if they do not think they will make a go of it. People are looking for bargains, especially during this cost of living crisis.

“I think there is a need and a market for it in Basildon and I think it will be popular in Basildon too.

“There are lots of businesses like this opening and they offer good service and trade. I think it’s good to see a new business coming to the town and jobs being created too.

“These people will spend their money here which will be good for the town’s economy.”

The Echo contacted One Below for comment.