A NEW fish and chip shop is hoping to open near to Basildon bus station as the latest new eatery boosting the town centre. 

Plans have been submitted to Basildon Council to transform the former Reflections store into a fish and chip shop at 6 South Walk. 

If approved, the chippy will join a host of new restaurants that have opened or are soon to open in the town centre. 

READ MORE >> Potential buyer has shown 'genuine interest' in Southend United, judge is told

Burger King is set to replace the former Maplin in the town centre, while the former Wimpy, also in South Walk, has been transformed into the Station Cafe. 

Alongside these, Nando’s, Kaspa’s Desserts and Orleto Lounge have all opened at the new £25 million East Square cinema development. 

Davida Ademuyiwa, councillor for St Martin’s ward, welcomed the plans for a new fish and chip restaurant.

She said: “I very much welcome the idea of a potential new fish and chip restaurant in the town centre.

“As a small business owner, and a supporter of businesses, I am extremely happy for any economic activity that comes to the area as it uplifts our area, increases footfall, and creates jobs for our residents.”

The applicant states that the plans would enhance and optimise the existing building - which is currently vacant. 

The plans stated: “The food establishment will be serving the traditional British cuisine of fish and chips, hence maintaining the British food culture within the area.

“The intention of the proposal is to enhance and optimise the existing building’s potentiality whilst respecting the existing building’s structure and context.

“The kitchen equipment will be of the latest technology to cause no harm to the context and the neighbouring properties.

“The redesign and changes will have positive impact and will result in additional employment to the new premises.”

The proposed opening hours are 9am until 11pm from Monday to Sunday, including bank holidays.