WORK is finally set to begin transforming an empty car park in Basildon town centre into 105 homes after more than four years of delays.

Plans to build 35 houses and 70 flats on “car park 14” - near the Roundacre roundabout and Basildon train station - were first put forward back in 2020.

Now Sempra Homes, a Basildon Council-owned house building firm, have confirmed that diggers will move in and work will begin on July 24.

The site, which has been surrounded by hoardings, has been described as “abandoned looking” amid repeated calls for work to begin.

Prior to plans being put forward, the site had been abandoned for close to a decade and was previously used as overflow parking for the town centre’s Westgate Retail Park.

It was purchased by Sempra Homes for £2.6million from Homes England back in 2020.

Plans approved in 2022 would have seen the car park, off Laindon Link, transformed into a 233-home ten-storey tower block before the plans were scaled back.

Kerry Smith, Independent councillor responsible for Nethermayne ward, said: “I mean, to be honest, I am gutted it isn’t the plans we hoped for.

“We left a really nice design, more social homes, and it would have helped cut waiting lists.

“But the Tories cut it, and it is now mediocre.”

The site has become a magnet for anti-social behaviour and fly-tipping since being left empty.

This week in a letter, construction company Hill confirmed they have been appointed by Sempra Homes.

The firm is aiming for a completion date in spring 2026.

The letter to residents stated: “We have been appointed by Sempra homes for the redevelopment of the site which will provide 105 homes.

“We are due to commence on site commencing July 24 with an anticipated completion date of Spring 26.

“Our working hours will be Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm and if required Saturday 8am to 1pm.

“During the works, some inconvenience may be caused to residents, and we want to assure you that we will be endeavouring to keep this to an absolute minimum.

“Construction sites can be dangerous places and we ask for your co-operation in always keeping everyone outside the site.”