A set of aims has been drawn up by town leaders with the sole intention of making the Basildon district a better place in which to live.

The plan is to make the most of investment heading into Basildon with the Thames Gateway regeneration scheme, to bring a thriving local economy, leisure facilities and a safe and healthy community.

Basildon Council plans to work with other organisations to achieve these improvements and build on its aims for town centre regeneration, housing estate renewal and the Gardiners Lane South development.

Council leader Malcolm Buckley said: "Only the best will do for the people of the Basildon District - and that includes everyone. Our priorities for change, our commitment to make the district the place to work, live and play must meet the needs of the young, the old and families with young children - and they will.

"We are making rapid progress in preparing for action on all these initiativesk," he continued.

"We are now preparing business plans in readiness to secure funding from the Government and other statutory groups.

"We are in detailed discussions with English Partnerships and Essex County Council and the Housing Corporation is taking forward estate renewal schemes and creating affordable housing."

Regeneration through sport has also been added to the action plan.

Published Friday, June 13, 2003

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