A NEW college will be built in Basildon town centre.

The South Essex College will be built at the former site of the Basildon market, Market Square.

It is moving from its current site in Nethermayne, Basildon.

The new campus will be a three-storey building focusing on IT, digital technologies and science courses.

The approved plans have been reduced in size but will still include a car park, shops, public spaces and a college for a thousand students and 58 full time staff.

Anthony McGarel, deputy principal and chief executive of the college, said: “We’re thrilled that our exciting plans to deliver high quality education and training in the heart of Basildon Town Centre has been recognised by the council.

“We’re excited to get going with the development to equip young Essex people with the skills to work in the growing digital technology industry.”

David Dadds, vice chairman of Basildon Council’s regeneration committee, said: “I am delighted that full planning permission has been granted for this state-of-the-art campus in Market Square, which will provide fantastic opportunities for young people from across the borough and beyond.

“We are committed to creating opportunities for all and doing all we can to support education and employment providers.

“This decision is a significant milestone in our ambitious regeneration plans for Basildon, which will bring more life into the town centre and boost the economy.”

The college was previously granted planning permission for a larger development in 2013 but faced numerous setbacks due to utility issues linked to the overall regeneration project, which saw the market moved.

The latest plans have seen the three-storey development more than halve in size from 8,050 square metres.

The number of staff has also been slashed from 150 to 58 and its capacity will reduce from 1,520 students to 1,000.

The market has relocated to St Martins Square, Basildon’ with new cabin-style trader pitches.

The council is currently working on a multi-million pound revamp of St Martin’s Square with new planting and seating areas.

The council is also working on a new scheme to improve East Square in Basildon with shops, restaurants and a cinema.