Plans to build a glass arts display unit in Basildon Town Centre have been put on the back burner.

Councillors investigating a feasibility study prepared by Basildon Council officers, shelved the plans when they discovered the cost.

The idea had been to construct a glazed display cabinet to show local artists' work.

It would have been built behind the East Pavilion in the Town Square. But it would have cost between £42,000 and £67,000.

Councillor Loraine Rossati (Lab, Vange) said: "It would be astronomically expensive."

David Keeffe (Lab, Lee Chapel North) added: "I was the champion of this idea and still like it but, much to my regret, it is hugely more expensive than I anticipated."

Councillor Peter Patrick (Con, Billericay East) was concerned there would not be enough artists using the cabinets when it was revealed the council would be unable to insure the work.

Members of last night's community arts sub-committee agreed to take no further action on the study at this stage.

However, they agreed plans for a £30,000 statue or other piece of art for display on a plinth on a raised grass bank in the Town Square.

The money will cover advertising for tenders and the commissioning of designs from the artists shortlisted. It will also cover the cost of the sculpture itself.

They also approved a £20,000 scheme which will involve schools working on banners to be displayed on lighting columns in the town.

The sub-committee members agreed the council's new arts officer should be involved in both schemes to ensure a unity of design.

There are also plans to seek corporate funding for the projects.

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