BASILDON has long been the most forward-looking council in Essex, and continues to work for a better future.

Backed by members of the Basildon Renaissance Partnership, we have a clear vision for Basildon district.

This is a very exciting time for Basildon town centre in particular, as we begin to turn our ambitious plans into an exciting reality.

The council is advertising to the property and development industry across Europe our desire to engage with a strategic development partner for the £1billion regeneration of Basildon town centre.

The council cannot fund this scale of regeneration through its own resources, so a private sector partner to deliver the ambitious plans is needed.

This is the way we are now proceeding.

The initial pre-qualification period ends on August 6, and already a number of major investment/development companies have publicly stated their interest in the project.

These are companies with proven track records and the financial clout to deliver major regeneration schemes.

We are looking for a partner who can match our ambition and commitment and bring private sector skills and resources to this landmark project.

We aim to announce a development partner in mid 2008.

They will then produce a detailed masterplan in consultation with the people of Basildon with a view to obtaining outline planning consent. Over the next 15-20 years the regeneration of the town centre will see construction of over 3,500 homes, new shops and offices, improvements to the transport network, the environment and the creation of public spaces.

The proposed new homes, shopping, leisure and business space will enhance an already successful town centre.

Improved shopping, new bars and restaurants, a commercial centre led by a landmark Civic Centre, new Station Quarter and a whole new community will build on existing strengths.

Already, a £15million revamp is underway at the Eastgate Centre and 650 new homes have planning consent.

You will have already seen the activity opposite the train station, as a number of new homes are nearing completion.

Through the Basildon Renaissance Partnership, we have been able to secure significant funding from the Government to help us through the technical process of engaging a development partner.

We are benefiting from the best professional advice and experience possible. We are also seeking further funding to implement some changes to the town centre right now.

Improved street furniture, signposting and other improvements are all needed and could all be seen soon.

The regeneration of Basildon town centre is not happening in isolation. This project is part of a comprehensive programme of investment across the district that capitalises on our prime position as a major employment location in Essex that is also only 30 minutes from the City of London. This will improve the overall quality of life for residents and provide new job opportunities for local people.

Plans include rebuilding Laindon town centre.

Wickford will benefit from improved public services, an enhanced retail offer and modern leisure facilities as well as town centre living opportunities.

Pitsea will enjoy further investment to improve the centre for pedestrians, strengthening to retail opportunities whilst improving the much valued market.

We are renewing our housing estates to improve living standards and improving our business areas to provide a wider range of employment opportunities.

Basildon is a fantastic place to live, but regeneration and development is required to make the district a modern place fit for the 21st century.

I can assure you that our new buildings and homes will be of the highest quality, and of benefit to our existing and well as future communities. I hope that you will join me in getting behind Basildon's renaissance.