Plan for posh apartments to be binned in wake of outcry

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CONTROVERSIAL plans to replace Wickford’s postal sorting office with luxury flats look set to be shelved.

It is understood Basildon Council is no longer pursuing a compulsory purchase order to buy the sorting office, in Lower Southend Road.

The site had been earmarked for demolition, along with surrounding shops, to make way for 173 superior riverside apartments under Wickford’s masterplan.

The plans are strongly opposed by the Wickford Action Group, which claims too many flats have already been built in the town.

Wickford Action Group chairman Alan Ball, 51, of Cedar Avenue, Wickford, said: “The last thing Wickford needs is to lose an important amenity and have it replaced with unwanted flats.

“If the compulsory purchase order has been dropped, then it’s definitely good news.” The council had planned to secure the compulsory purchase order, so Bradgate Developments could start building. But the Lands Tribunal, which oversees compulsory purchase orders, confirmed no order is currently lodged for the Wickford sorting office.

It is thought this is because private developer Bradgate is struggling to raise enough cash to build the new homes.

Members of the council’s ruling cabinet are staying tight-lipped on the compulsory purchase order.

Stephen Horgan, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “I really don’t want to comment at the moment, because conversations are still on going with Bradgate.”

However, Paul Kirkman, spokesman for Basildon Council’s Labour group, said: “It’s disappointing if this has fallen through. It seems like a lot of the council’s masterplans across the district are experiencing problems.”

Royal Mail announced in January it was formally opposing the plans, as the council had not identified an alternative site.

Jane Warriner, spokesman for Royal Mail, said: “We cannot comment on the council’s plans, but our priority is to deliver a high-quality mail service to customers.”

Bradgate Developments was unavailable for comment.