The first phase of the £1billion Purfleet regeneration project is set to commence, with a bridge over the railway line and an Integrated Medical Centre as part of the plans.

On Monday, December 4, the project will also include new road connections, a children's play area, improvements to the riverfront walkway, and new shops, cafés and restaurants.

When the whole scheme is completed, there will be spaces for new businesses, a new rail station, 2,850 new homes and more open spaces for residents to enjoy.

Keltbray, contractors working on behalf of Thurrock Council and Purfleet Centre Regeneration Limited, will be arriving in Purfleet to set up a site office ahead of the planning application being submitted before Christmas.

Leader of the Council, Councillor Rob Gledhill, said: “This is an important first milestone in the project and an historic moment for the town – this marks the start of the transformation of Purfleet.

“I am delighted that we have been able to get plans into action, not just talking about improving Purfleet but actually making it happen.

“The redevelopment of Purfleet will not only benefit the residents in the area, but the borough as a whole. Working with our partners, we will delivery this exciting project.”

Councillor Mark Coxshall, responsible for regeneration, welcomed the news.

He said: “After years of planning, consulting and designing, residents will soon see fencing and site cabins going up ahead of the investigation works starting.

“No planning permission is required for these investigation works and the good news is that we will receive the actual outline planning application in December, nearly two months ahead of the original timescale.

“This scheme has been fully developed with Purfleet residents and for Purfleet residents. I’m looking forward to seeing diggers on site and us getting on with delivering this much anticipated regeneration scheme.”

The investigation works will last for around 10 weeks and will be conducted Monday – Friday between 8am and 5pm. Residents and businesses in the local area will receive further information delivered to their property.

For more information about regeneration in Purfleet, go to thurrock.gov.uk/purfleet-growth