DEMOLITION is set to begin as construction workers moved into the old Great Oaks retail park. 

Signs have been put in place around the empty building stating demolition will begin shortly ahead of major plans to build 245 eco-friendly new homes in the town centre. 

The retail park previously housed Staples and Carphone Warehouse before they closed and plans, put forward by developer Donard, were approved in 2021. 

Works have been ongoing at the Great Oaks siteWorks have been ongoing at the Great Oaks site (Image: George Pizani)

 The development focusses on creating “sustainable homes” with heat pumps to reduce bills for residents. 

Adele Brown, deputy leader of Basildon council, believes the Great Oaks development is an exciting aspect of the council’s plan for regeneration and offers a long-term, sustainable vision for the town.

She said: “This project not only addresses pressing housing needs by delivering 245 new homes, but it does so with a clear focus on sustainability and future proofing. With energy-efficient technologies like heat pumps and modular construction, Great Oaks, set a new standard for eco-friendly living in our borough.”

Great Oaks retail park is one of Basildon's empty sitesGreat Oaks retail park is one of Basildon's empty sites (Image: George Pizani)  In addition to new homes, there will also be rooftop gardens, extensive cycle parking and space for public artwork.

Ms Brown believes the project is the first step in the regeneration of the town centre, which will see thousands of homes built as part of the Labour-led council’s vision. 

“This development also plays a crucial role in our wider regeneration efforts, revitalising a key area of the town centre and providing modern, high-quality housing close to essential amenities and transport links,” she said. 

The development will include 245 new homesThe development will include 245 new homes (Image: Donard)  “Basildon is growing, and projects like Great Oaks ensure that growth is responsible, sustainable, and benefits to the whole community.”

A spokesperson for the development company, Donard, said: “Donard are progressing with the demolition of the existing assets as we ready for the next stage of delivery in 2025.

“Our focus currently is working our way through the Building Safety Act process to ensure we deliver a high-quality design and a safe building for the residents of Basildon to live in. We look forward to bringing this development to reality in due course.”

Signs are currently up around the project site warning passers-by of the demolition and security are present.