Controversial plans for a new Billericay church have moved a step closer to getting the final go-ahead.

Basildon Council's resources committee decided last night to put proposals for the future of the land in Queen's Park Avenue out to advertisement.

Planning permission for the Methodist church was given by the Billericay area committee last year.

The land was bought by Wimpey Homes when it built houses near the site more than ten years ago.

It was taken over by Basildon Council so it could be used by the local community.

Now an application has been received, Wimpey Homes is still stipulating that the land must be a community use and so the church is proposing it will be used for playgroups and various activities.

Money for the 125-year lease of the land, believed to be £30,000, will be divided between Basildon Council and Wimpey Homes.

Billericay councillor Matt Barr urged people to write to the resources committee chairman outlining their oppositions to the plans.

He said: "There is a church in Western Road and a community centre at Hannakins Farm.

"This is not the correct site for a community centre because it is going to disturb the lives of all the people living near.

"The resouces committee is treating this as a money-making exercise."

Any complaints received would mean it would be sent back to the resources committee.

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