BASILDON town centre is set for a makeover in 2019 after critics claimed it has not changed for decades.

New leisure complexes, shopping spaces and a college are all being built to revamp the centre.

East Square, Basildon is set for a bright future with a new cinema, one of the largest in the UK, and also new restaurants.

A contractor has been hired to demolish Freedom House and clear the site with another set to be appointed to build the new centre.

Basildon market has moved to St Martin’s Square and a brand new high technology college will be built at Market Square, Basildon, moving the South Essex College site from Nethermayne, Basildon.

Shoppers and residents in the borough are keen to see the new additions and major changes but some are concerned the town centre decline has gone too far for it to be saved.

Audrey Bentley, 71, from Langdon Hills said: “I think this development is very good news for Basildon town centre.

“I think it’s about time we had some investment in the area. I think the East Square development will be great and will help to get more people into the town centre.

“Unfortunately the East Square area of the town has been rundown for sometime.

READ MORE: Basildon to get new state-of-the-art IT college

“I like the new market and it seems to be popular, I am a bit unsure about it being outside the council office but think it’s good.

“I know a few traders from the market and they are very pleased.

Margaret Prattle, 55, from Basildon said: “I would like to see more shops be added to the town centre and I think we could do with big names perhaps like John Lewis, like in Chelmsford to help draw shoppers in.

“It is about time we had the town centre regenerated as it’s not changed much since the 60’s and 70’s so we do need it badly.

“I think it’s sad that the town has declined so much but I hope over the next few years it will be buzzing and very busy again, like it used to be.”

John Hanson, 68, from Wickford said he is concerned it’s not enough to bring the town back to life.

He said: “We must make sure this will make enough difference and will be a success.

“I feel the decline has gone on far too long and am pleased to see the council stepping up to improve the town centre.

“I am not against any of this work or development but am sceptical that it could not be as successful as we are all hoping for.

“I think the Festival Leisure Park will still draw more people for cinema and restaurant fans.”

Last week Basildon Council announced the development of the ten screen cinema and six new restaurants in Basildon’s East Square is a step closer after Thurrock firm, Squibb Group, were awarded the contract for the demolition.

It includes securing the site for development and the demolition of Freedom House and East Walk up to the NatWest units. Construction works for the new buildings are yet to be agreed with a company.

Earlier this month it was announced the plans for the new college had been officially approved. The new market opened in October with new cabin style pitches.