A public inquiry was held last year where a Government Planning Inspector heard evidence from the council and developers Bouygues UK, who set out their case for the compulsory purchase of land in order to develop the new community facilities.

Opponents of the bid were also able to state their case. 

Councillor Sid Kallar MBE, executive member for regeneration, said: "Along with the public realm works currently underway and the imminent opening of Tesco, the confirmation of the CPO marks another key milestone in the regeneration of Dagenham Heathway.
 
"A CPO requires substantial work with numerous hurdles to leap and I am delighted the Government Inspector agrees that this scheme should be approved." 
The proposal will provide Dagenham Heathway with council facilities for the first time, and help support shops and services in the area as part of the multi-million pound regeneration of Dagenham Heathway.
 
Mirroring the Barking Learning Centre where a One Stop Shop and modern library are co-located, the facility will also include a modern retail unit and 82 flats - one-third of which will be allocated for social housing - in a landmark building marking, it one of the largest investments in the area for many years. 
 
It is thought building work will be able to start in the spring with construction starting in the summer with competition scheduled by 2010.