CONSTRUCTION works are set to begin in a matter of weeks on a 492-home tower block at the former Wetherspoon pub site in Basildon town centre.

Here is all we know about the site and construction plans.

Basildon Council and residents initially opposed plans for the new homes, after major concerns were raised that the tower block was too tall and out of keeping with the town centre.

However, plans were given the green light by the Government’s planning inspectorate after an appeal.

According to construction documents submitted to Basildon Council, work will begin on April 4 and will take a total of 156 weeks.

Works are set to take place between 8am and 6pm on Monday to Friday, and 8am to 12pm on Saturdays.

A full programme has been prepared within the document submitted to Basildon Council.

This states that work-on state will begin on April 4 for 156 weeks.

Between week one and five there will enabling works, and between week five and 14 will be demolition.

From week 14 to week 23 will be further demolition and substructure, cranes, and superstructure.

From week 23 to 35 will be continued substructure, and roofing, cladding, and fit-out. From week 35 to 108 will be fit-out and lift install and from weeks 108 to then end will be internal fit-out.

With works closing in, many of the shops at Market Square have since closed down or relocated ahead of the plans.

This includes the closure of Moon on the Square and Subway, as well as the relocation of Lloyds Bank.