THE South Basildon and Thurrock MP Stephen Metcalfe was congratulated by Chancellor George Osborne in the House of Commons for the part he’s played in bringing investment into the area.

That has included £1.5billion in London Gateway superport, and £280 million is being ploughed into Lakeside.

The Chancellor said: “It is important for us to send a message to the world that we are open for business and open to investment, and because we are doing that, we are now a go-to destination for world investment.”

Mr Metcalfe commented: “I am delighted that so many investors are choosing South Basildon and East Thurrock and the wider South Essex area. It will bring more jobs and growth to the local area and this can only be a good thing.”