AN EMPTY car park which has become a hotspot for fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour will be transformed into new homes for key workers and veterans thanks to a £1.86million funding boost.

The old car park, in Markham Chase, near Laindon Links, has become a hotspot for anti-social over the last 15 years and last September plans were approved to build houses on the site.

Now, work will begin after Basildon Council received funding from the Government and gave a slice to Sempra Homes – the council’s homes building firm – to get the project off the ground.

The former car park site has had significant issues with fly-tipping, anti-social behaviour and has also be used for “unlicensed fast-food sales”.

Sempra Homes will build three, two-bedroom, “vibrant, modern houses” specifically for veterans and key workers living in the borough.

Alex Harrison, Labour councillor responsible for Lee Chapel North, said the site has been plagued by problems and praised the scheme – calling for more homes to be built specifically for the town’s key workers and veterans.

He said: “It is brilliant news. The funding will help improve the area after years of issues.

“It is absolutely important, and I hope it is the first of many developments, that look after the people who have done the most to help us, whether that is Basildon veterans or key workers.

“It is good news all round.”

A new sheltered bus stop on Markhams Close will also be created as part of the development.

As part of the sustainability strategy, each property will have an electric vehicle charging point, and all mature trees will be retained as well as the inclusion of a wild meadow and pollinator planting.

Melanie Keys, services manager at Sempra Homes said: “We are really pleased to see this development come forward, which will be delivered in partnership with One Public Estate and Homes England.

“It has been a long time in the making, and we look forward to seeing the transformation of the site from its current unused hardstanding, which has been prone to fly tipping and nuisance for many years, into three beautiful contemporary homes.”