MAJOR supermarket chain Asda will not be involved in a planned redevelopment of a derelict supermarket site in Wickford.

The supermarket had been touted as the brand to take over the former Co-Op in the town centre.

The Co-Op at the site closed in May 2022 after the lease expired. Plans had been for a new Morrisons at the site, but that deal also fell through over fears the location was not viable.

Developer Heriot UK is behind the £30million plans for the site, which also include 72 flats above a new supermarket. 

Heriot says it "remains committed" to this site and that another supermarket was interested in the site, but Asda's pulling out has sparked concerns and demands for action in the community.

George Jeffery, Conservative councillor for Wickford Park, said: "They need to get on with it. I am concerned because we can't keep chopping and changing supermarkets. Wickford wants a supermarket back there. 

"I think residents will, rightly, be feeling quite angry and upset, and I share their frustration as a resident of Wickford. The impact of the site being left like it is for so long is a loss in confidence and breakdown in trust. It's absolutely imperative, it's crucial that we get a supermarket at this site and it's tidied up.

"It will encourage footfall into the town and, at least in my view, I want to make sure the high street and town centre are as successful as possible."

In 2023, Heriot UK unveiled new plans for a supermarket and 138 flats at the site with an underground car park. The developer has never publicly mentioned which supermarket brand was planned to move onto the site, but Mark Francois, Tory MP for Wickford and Rayleigh, said last year that Asda was expected to open there. 

A spokesman for Heriot UK said: "Heriot has confirmed that Asda have decided not to proceed with the Wickford site. However, I can confirm Heriot is continuing discussions with another national supermarket operator who has confirmed their interest in the site.

"Heriot remains committed to this site and we are continuing our discussions with Basildon Council officers to ensure that the current planning application is presented to the planning committee at the earliest opportunity."