STARBUCKS has been given the green light to open at Basildon’s newest retail park.

Work is progressing rapidly at the new St Hilary Retail Park, off Miles Gray Road, which is already set to boast a Lidl and a Greggs alongside a host of other businesses.

Now, Starbucks - the world’s largest coffee house chain - has been granted planning permission by Basildon Council to convert one of the remaining units at the retail park.

The new coffee shop will boast 96 inside seats plus 12 outside.

Craig Rimmer, councillor responsible for regeneration, said: “This is fantastic news.

“It shows that businesses are committing to Basildon, and it is great to have an employer like Starbucks.

“It should be people as they have an array of coffees and treats people love, plus they are known for being a good employer too.

“St Hilary’s Retail Park will be a good economic boost to the area.”

Works are progressing quickly at the park with flooring and wall tile retailer Tile Mountain also set to move in.

Fast food outlet Tim Hortons is also set to move into the former Burger Brats site further down the road.

Basildon already has coffee shops in Basildon at Eastgate and Festival Leisure Park.

Basildon Council leader Andrew Baggott said: “It is great that we are continuing to attract big names.

“It again shows that, as I have always said, people are interested in Basildon.

“It adds jobs, brings in the suppliers, and everything else that goes with shops opening.

“There does also have to be good transport system in place though for those who don’t drive. That is something for bus operators to pick up on and see a gap in the market.”

When contacted for a comment on an update of the site, a spokesman for Starbucks remained tight lipped.

They said: “We are always looking for new locations and opportunities to bring the Starbucks Experience to customers in the UK, but at this time we have no updates to share about plans in Basildon.”