THE firm behind Purfleet’s regeneration has defended the plans as they come in for criticism.

Purfleet Centre Regeneration Limited is working with Urban Catalyst and Swan Housing to deliver the project.

A spokesperson for PCRL said: “Our plans to regenerate Purfleet town centre enjoy the support of Thurrock Council but just as importantly grassroots organisations such as Purfleet Community Forum and Purfleet Community Design Panel.

“PCRL is committed to maximising local training and employment opportunities from the scheme.

“As well as the c.2,200 high quality permanent jobs the scheme is expected to generate in the creative industries, health, retail and business sectors there are forecast to be approximately 1,250 construction jobs per annum over the period the scheme is being developed.

“The creative industries in particular add over £100bn a year to the UK economy, are a major source of employment and increasingly an important export too.

“PCRL is also committed to working with Thurrock Council to help relocate existing businesses from the site elsewhere within the borough wherever possible so as to ensure that as many of the estimated 403 jobs currently based on site are retained within the borough.

“The new creative complex is in addition to thousands of new homes, new health and educational facilities and significant mixed retail and leisure space, including a hotel as well as new cafes and restaurants. There will also be considerable infrastructure investment, with an upgraded train station, improved road connections and riverside, with plenty of open green and public space.”