DIVISIVE £1billion plans for tower blocks containing almost 500 homes have been given the green light at appeal.

Basildon Council faced a stand-off with developer Orwell after raising concerns about the proposals for the 17-storey blocks of homes on land at Market Square, Basildon.

The plans, which will see 492 homes, shop and office space installed in the heart of the town, have now been given the go ahead after a planning inspector sided with the developer.

The giant high-rise block was part of Basildon Council’s huge town centre masterplan with a 5,000-seat arena, 4,000 homes and new sites for a larger theatre and smaller council offices, while under Labour leadership.

The new Conservative-led council, however, opposed the plans which they say “would never have met our vision for the town”.

Read more >> Huge plans for tower blocks with almost 500 homes agreed at an appeal 

Basildon Council leader Andrew Baggott has now said work must begin to shape the plans in a way which gives the “best possible outcome” for the town.

"Throughout this process we have been committed to honouring the views of our local communities,” said Mr Baggott.

"We would like to thank the planning inspector for taking the time to hear the appeal, consider all aspects of the situation and come to a decision.

"While obviously disappointed, we will be reflecting on the inspector’s decision over the coming days as we continue to work towards the best possible outcome for the people of Basildon.”

Mr Baggott added: "This particular planning process began over a year ago and the scheme had already been partly through the planning process before the change in administration.

"If we had been in administration then this development would not have met our vision for the town centre, which was very different.

"The inspector was clear this decision was based on this particular site and does not prevent us from continuing to protect our town centre from over development.

"We remain committed in our desire to prevent skyscraper style monstrosities and create a town centre in line with the public consultation and hope future developers will work with us on this.”