As the Echo launches the Pride of Basildon campaign, highlighting the good things about our town, we asked local people what they thought the best things about living in Basildon are. 

1. Good transport links

With one of the most punctual train lines in the country on your doorstep, Basildon is a popular town for commuters working in the capital. Buses can take you across the county meaning it’s a popular base for working people.

2. Community spirit

Basildon residents rally together when there is a problem. Fundraising, helping the needy and looking out for one another.

3. Parks and open spaces

Gloucester Park, Lake Meadows, Wat Tyler Country Park, Wickford memorial park, Basildon has it’s share of quiet places to walk the dog, take the kids or escape for a lunch break.

Echo: The new wetlands at Wat Tyler Park

4. Down to Earth, friendly people

In Basildon, if you fall over in the street someone will help you. If you’re ten pence short for a parking ticket, someone will offer you the money. The people are friendly and welcoming wherever you go.

5. Family attractions

As a town with lots of young families, Basildon has plenty of places for parents to take their children. Whether its a walk through the park to feed the ducks or escaping the beautiful British weather indoors there’s lots to keep them occupied.

6. Sporting Village

Basildon has something a bit different in the shape of the Sporting Village. As well as a swimming pool and gym, it boasts a huge climbing wall right at the heart of the building.

Echo: Popular so far – uptake of memberships at the new £38million Sporting Village

7. The Basildon sign

Love it or hate it, the much-parodied Basildon sign has become a firm fixture of the town’s character.

8. Towngate theatre

Where else would you go to see the panto in Basildon?

9. Festival Leisure

Whether you want a meal with friends, cinema, bowling or a night out clubbing the Festival Leisure Park, or Bas Vegas as it is affectionately known, has it all in one place.

10. New Holland Tractors

The New Holland Tractor site is one of Basildon’s landmarks with rows of gleaming tractors lined up outside. Manufacturing for more than 50 years, it is truly one of the town’s biggest success stories.

Echo: Flexible speed control, increased productivity and greater fuel economy are promised from new CVT tractors such as the New Holland T6 Auto Command