BASILDON Council has sold off a contested piece of land to fund the regeneration of Wickford.

The Tory adminsitration has accepted an offer from Keepmoat Homes Ltd for the site at Radwinter Avenue, Wickford.

An earlier deal with Croudace Homes fell through because the two parties could not agree terms.

Basildon Council spokesman said: “An agreement will be entered into with Keepmoat to ensure the housing scheme is developed sensitively and is in keeping with the surrounding areas.”

Recent improvements in Wickford include the creation of a new public square, improved market facilities and a £2.4m new gym and refurbished swimming pool.