Laindon Centre in new ownership

After a protracted purchase process, the Laindon Centre has a new owner, with the promise of comprehensive regeneration. If you don't know it, Laindon Town Centre is a decaying sixties disaster that desperately needs bulldozing and replacing with the quality development that the traders there and the people of Laindon deserve. This was the press release:

LAINDON REGENERATION LLP

Press Release

28^th August 2007

LAINDON REGENERATION TAKES A STEP FORWARD

New plans for Laindon town centre have taken a step forward with the news that Laindon Regeneration LLP, a division of Colonnade Group, has completed the purchase of the Laindon Centre from Lakehill Investments. Currently, much of the existing centre is in poor condition.

Plans for a major redevelopment of the existing 1960s shopping centre are currently being prepared and will be the subject of public consultation with local residents and businesses on 13^th, 14^th and 15^th September. Laindon Regeneration believes that Laindon is well positioned to take advantage of the Thames Gateway developments as it is on a major road junction, close to both the A13 and A127, with rail access to London in 30 minutes via Laindon Station.

Alastair Watson, Chief Executive of Colonnade Group said,

“We are delighted to have completed the purchase of the Laindon Centre and are committed to delivering a high quality development of new shops and homes. Public consultation is at the heart of our approach and we are looking forward to this in September when local residents and businesses can have their say.”

Councillor Stephen Horgan, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Development, said:

“We are delighted that Laindon Regeneration has now formally completed the purchase of the Laindon Centre. We have been deeply concerned about its continued deterioration and the damage this has done to the community of Laindon. We are now confident that Laindon Regeneration will be moving things forward with haste and enthusiasm, and we look forward to the public consultation in September.”

Angela Smith MP welcomed the announcement, saying;

"The Laindon Centre urgently needs to be updated and improved to provide a better service for local residents. I would like to encourage as many people as possible to take part in the proposed consultation, to help shape this exciting and innovative new development."

Chris Balch, Chairman of the Basildon Renaissance Partnership, says:

“A key priority for Basildon is the regeneration of our town centres, and we also welcome the news that the regeneration of this major focal point for the local community is in the pipeline. This is another clear indication that the private sector is confident and willing to invest in the Basildon District, and can see the great opportunities that exist in the area. We look forward to supporting all parties in bringing this scheme forward and giving the community of Laindon a town centre fit for the modern age.”