Laindon Centre planning progress 'crucial step forward'

The major project to demolish the Laindon Shopping Centre and replace it with homes was first drawn up almost 20 years ago but has hit countless delays. 

In 2019 the shopping centre was demolished and construction began on a series of tower blocks before work halted and the project was left as a half-built eyesore. 

The concrete skeletons are awaiting completion (Image: Google Maps) Roadworks surrounding the project are now underway and last week Basildon Council nodded through Sanctuary Housing’s latest planning application. 

Once complete, 200 new homes will be created alongside a Lidl. 

Laindon Park councillor and deputy mayor, Victoria Joseph, said: “It’s fantastic news that Sanctuary’s amendments to the Laindon High Street development have been approved. 

“This is a crucial step forward in addressing the years of neglect that have left the site unfinished.

“Labour is committed to serious regeneration in Laindon after 20 years of Tory inaction, and we are focused on delivering real progress for our community.

“Residents have been waiting far too long for this development, and we’re eager to see it finally brought to completion."

The development will include a new Lidl supermarket (Image: Sanctuary)

The amendments made to the submitted plans for the former Laindon Shopping Centre site include a reduction in the height of apartment blocks, changes to materials being used and improvements to proposed landscaping.

Alongside the homes and supermarket, the plans will include a new health centre and public space surrounding the Laindon War Memorial. 

David Soothill, development director for Sanctuary, said: “This is another positive step forward for the residents of Laindon, enabling us to further progress the work needed to deliver the project.

“We’re also continuing to make good progress with the highway works that started in the summer and are needed to provide access to the development site and build a new, larger Lidl supermarket.

“We’ll continue to provide updates to the community.”

Sanctuary took over the project when it acquired Swan Housing Association in 2023.