A DERELICT Essex nightclub that is in a "very distressed" state after two fires is set to be replaced by flats. Plans were agreed for a second time at a meeting this week.

The former Reids bar, in Laindon Road, Billericay is set to be replaced by the two buildings, with 32 flats, offering one and two bedroom homes. The business, which became a popular nightlife venue, with a restaurant and bar, was hit by fires in 2022 and 2024.

Basildon Borough Council's planning committee heard the plans include a contribution from the developer of £23,800 for healthcare, including cash for the South Green Surgery, which recently shut down. Councillors were later told some of the money would be directed to another surgery.

The meeting heard each flat will have a parking space, with extra spaces for visitors. Councillor Mo Larkin, chairman of the meeting, said: "It will be great to see something decent there, it looks absolutely awful, so I am going to agree with this application." The committee was also told neighbours, living near the site are also in favour of the redevelopment.

Councillors again questioned the financial contribution for the development but were told it was in line with other applications and the development is not expected to be for families, with a low number of children living there.

A spokesman for the developer, told the committee the firm "understands what makes Billericay special." He added: "That's why they propose a traditional design, using quality materials that meet the Billericay standard." He said the site is in a "very distressed" state and a "lot of local residents and neighbours are keen for the site to be redeveloped."

He added: "When it comes to development it's only right brown field sites are are a priority for new homes." The councillors voted unanimously to agree the proposals.