Basildon shop owners and traders who refuse to leave the town centre over fears of losing their businesses will be evicted.

Compulsory purchase orders were approved last night for an area that includes more than 20 business located in East Square – to make way for a multi million pound revamp.

Some business owners are expected to challenge the orders over fears they will lose everything if forced to move.

Conservative councillor Kevin Blake, for Burstead ward, said: “Most will go willingly, but perhaps not all. We’ve got to find places where they can all get the profits they are getting at the moment in the town centre.

“They can go to appeal. That might happen if they haven’t got enough money to go where they want.”

The decision to pursue compulsory purchase properties was taken by the policy and resources committee on Thursday night. A report to councillors said the plan would accommodate an application to create a multiplex cinema, restaurants and coffee shops.

The report explained that although many businesses were prepared to leave, other might not.

“All owners were contacted in writing,” the report read. “As a result, 17 of the leasehold interests have now either been acquired or terms are agreed subject to the necessary legal documentation…

“It has, however, become increasingly likely that it will not be possible to agree terms for all the outstanding interests that are required, and as the scheme cannot proceed until the site has been fully assembled, it is appropriate for the council to consider seeking to use compulsory powers of acquisition to ensure this project can be delivered.”

The council insisted it will do its best to help people move. Talks are expected to continue despite last night’s vote.

Mr Blake added: “We don't want to force people to leave. But you can’t hold up a project for the odd few.”

Other councillors said they felt arrangement can be made to accommodate all businesses affected by the move.

Wickford Independents councillor, David Harrison, predicted that most businesses would leave.

He said: "I don't think it will be a problem. The process has already started.

“I would have thought most will choose to leave. Their future success will be dependent on where they decide to move to. But the town centre needs that regeneration.”