RESIDENTS have been left “furious” and “frustrated” after a further delay with the Co-op development in Wickford.

Back in August, Heriot UK unveiled fresh plans for the former Co-op site, off Wickford High Street.

These plans would now include 134 flats in a series of blocks above the shop below.

This is different to the original plans approved back in September 2022, which was set to see the Co-op replaced with a new Morrisons store.

With fresh plans still yet to be submitted to Basildon Council, Heriot UK has been unable to confirm if the supermarket within the new plans will also be a Morrisons.

Residents have been left frustrated after they say they were promised a new supermarket “months and months ago”.

Debbie Webb, 61, said: “It is frustrating.

“I just think the way the plans have changed after getting initial planning permission is shameful.

“It is such a shame that after closing the Co-op, the site has stood empty for so long, and then Aldi has shut, so we have been left high and dry.”

Jaimie Jones, 44, added: “I am so frustrated as a Wickford resident of more than 20 years.

“It is disheartening as presently our town is devoid of significant supermarkets, prolonged waiting lists for medical facilities and schools, and substantial daily traffic congestion.”

Andrew Neil said: “We thought we were getting a Morrisons supermarket – now it could be flats above a ‘neighbourhood supermarket’ which suggests it won’t be one of the big names.

“Unfortunately, Wickford has a history of failed promises.”

The closure of the Co-op store came at the same time as Aldi, in Wickford’s Broadway, closed for an eight-month long refurbishment - leaving Wickford residents “without a supermarket” in the town centre.

A spokesman for Heriot said: “Heriot remains committed to developing this site and they are continuing preparation of the planning application for this new development.

“The proposals still include a supermarket with residential above.

“In terms of the supermarket, Heriot are continuing discussions with prospective operators and hope to have confirmation of this at the point of submission or soon thereafter.

“Heriot hope to submit the application before the Christmas break, however ongoing commercial discussions with other parties has caused a delay.”