A developer says it is continuing discussions with an Essex council on plans to redevelop a former supermarket site.

Heriot UK bosses hope to submit official proposals, expected to be an Asda store and flats, for the former Co-Op store off Golden Jubilee Way in Wickford.

Proposals are set to be submitted to Basildon Council before the end of the year and it’s set to open next year, according to the MP.

The former Co-Op supermarket in the town closed down in May 2022 after its lease expired and plans, by developer Heriot UK, were agreed in September that year for a new Morrisons at the site, then last summer developer Heriot UK unveiled new plans for a supermarket and 138 flats at the site with an underground car park, then earlier this year Morrisons confirmed it had pulled out over viability fears for the new store.

It also comes after Mark Francois MP for Wickford and Rayleigh said the developer is working on a plan for Asda and new homes on the site.

Anthony Jaff, chief financial officer, at Heriot UK Limited said: “Heriot UK Limited continues to work with Basildon Council to develop a scheme that will be attractive, meet the needs of local residents whilst also acting as a catalyst for rejuvenation of the Wickford town centre. We anticipate fruitful ongoing discussions with Basildon Council and look forward to submitting a planning application as soon as details of the new development have been agreed with Basildon Council”.

A Basildon Council spokesman said: “Basildon Council remain in regular contact with Heriot UK regarding the former Co-op site in Wickford. We will continue to work proactively with the developer as the site progresses.”

In a press release, issued on Monday, April 29, from Mark Francois Tory MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, Asda was named as the supermarket “in advanced talks” with the developer. Then during a discussion in Parliament, in late July, Mr Francois MP told his fellow MPs how the developer is refining its latest proposals for the site. He said his message to Heriot is “You have had more than enough time—get on with it.”