Sempra Homes secures former police station land to develop into new homes

Sempra Homes has secured a deal to purchase the former Wickford Police Station with a view to developing the site into new homes.

Sempra, which is Basildon Council’s wholly owned house building company, has agreed a deal with Essex Police to purchase the building and develop the site as part of the council’s new homes programme.

Leader of Basildon Council Councillor Gavin Callaghan has welcomed the opportunity to provide much needed quality housing on a site which has been disused for three years.

He said:

“The opportunity to buy Wickford Police Station for development was one we couldn’t miss if we are to quickly increase the supply of new homes and make them available to local people in need. We’re pleased to have been able to work with our public sector partners to ensure land and assets are made best use of for the benefit of our residents.”

Manager of Sempra Homes Melanie Keys said:

“We are delighted to be acquiring this site to bring forward for new housing. Working in partnership with the council to deliver regeneration in Wickford the scheme will be designed to enhance the street scene with additional benefits provided through the provision of work opportunities to local residents through our construction contracts and use of local supply chains.”

Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, Roger Hirst added:

“We are really glad that we have got such a community minded buyer for this former police station. The proceeds from the sale will be invested back into Essex Police.”

Image: Basildon Council