MIPIM 2007: Lend Lease is to bid to become the preferred developer for Basildon town centre's regeneration scheme.

Next month, Basildon Disrict Council is expected to officially start its search for a development partner for its Town Centre revamp, which will comprise 500,000 sq ft (46450 sq m) of retail, up to 3,000 sq ft (278.70 sq m) of offices and 3,650 residential units. The scheme will also include a new civic centre and a theatre.

Adrian Smith, acquisitions and development director at Lend Lease confirmed at MIPIM that the developer would be among the first to throw its hat into the ring. 

‘It is a prime opportunity for us within the Thames Gateway,’ he said. ‘We also believe there is considerable scope for expansion in Basildon beyond this scheme.’

The council is expected to pick a preferred developer by the end of the year.