NHS bosses have pulled out of plans for a new health centre in a major Basildon area revamp project.

The new health centre planned as part of the redevelopment of Laindon Centre has been branded as "unaffordable" by Essex NHS bosses.

Residents slammed the move as "another kick in the teeth," as the long-awaited development, which has been in the works for more than 20 years, faces further delays.

Developer Sanctuary Housing has confirmed it is "submitting revised plans" for its regeneration of the Laindon Centre off High Road.

Laindon resident, Pat Rackley, said: "It's totally disgraceful. It's another kick in the teeth for Basildon. I just feel like Laindon is being given second-class treatment. It doesn't sound very good for the future of this project.

"The whole point of the regeneration was to improve our quality of life and to take pressure off the NHS.

"It's an absolute disgrace. It's appalling the residents of Basildon have been let down yet again. I'm quite angry."

The current agreed plans include more than 205 new homes, a new Lidl, 15 shops, an option for an improved medical centre, and a Sanctuary office. There will also be new public open spaces with a new location for the Laindon War Memorial.

David Soothill, director of development at Sanctuary, says the firm has "made significant progress" with around £7 million invested.

He added: "We remain fully committed to delivering this important project for the people of Laindon. We recognise how vital this site is locally, and will use this opportunity to ensure our plans meet the needs and aspirations of the surrounding community."

Tom Abell, chief executive of NHS Mid and South Essex said the local NHS "remains fully committed to improving facilities in Laindon."

He added: "Our focus continues to be on making the best use of taxpayers' resources to deliver sustainable high-quality services, improve access and support the health and wellbeing of local people.

"We are in the process of arranging meetings with local partners to consider what possible options are available. We appreciate this is frustrating and we will update the community as soon as possible."