Basildon was founded as a new town with a clear sense of purpose, to create opportunity, community and a place that people would be proud to call home.

Attending the ‘Basildon New Futures’ event last week provided an opportunity to reflect on the last seven decades as a new town, and how the borough is committed to delivering continued investment and growth for future generations to come.

The ambition for Basildon is bold, not only in continuing to transform the town centre but to provide growth with the same opportunity, community and investment. Regeneration works when both public and private sectors work collaboratively to achieve shared outcomes and over the last few years, this has become a reality in Basildon from breaking ground on new homes, to improving public realms and strengthening investment into the town centre.

It was insightful to hear from the Rt Hon Steve Reed OBE MP and Basildon Borough Council Leader, Councillor Gavin Callaghan, who spoke to the example of Basildon and how providing clarity enables the delivery of ambitious plans for growth. Increasing housing supply is a vital part of that picture, and Basildon is certainly trying to do its part. This is in addition to the aspiration of delivering a brand new Essex arena and a new healthcare facility directly in the town centre – which is already taking shape.

A key takeaway focussed on development achieving pride in place – building neighbourhoods that people want to live in and feel connected to. What stood out the most was the legacy of delivering positive change. Regeneration is not simply a response to immediate pressures, but a commitment – Basildon is building again!

Events like this show a clear shift that signals long-term thinking, partnership and place led delivery. A key message for developers – invest, and build that contributes to Basildon’s economy, Basildon’s town centre, Basildon’s public spaces and Basildon’s identity.

Basildon is building for the future and is certainly a borough to watch!