THE new leader of Basildon Council has outlined his commitment to supporting the arts scene in the town centre and backed the Towngate Theatre as a vital hub of activity.

Cllr Andrew Baggott has given a ringing endorsement to the St Martin's Square-based theatre that has recently been used as a Covid-19 vaccination centre for borough residents.

He said: "I wholeheartedly support the Towngate Theatre and recognise the huge value it brings to the community.

"In recent times it has been used as a Covid-19 test and vaccination centre but as we move out of the pandemic I am excited to see it return as a hub for arts in the heart of the town.

"It provides an exciting programme of drama, musicals, comedy, gigs and children's theatre that builds to fever pitch for Basildon's famous panto season at Christmas time.

"It will also play a vital role in the future of Basildon town centre which we will shortly be consulting on with residents to find out more about what they want the future of the town centre to look like."