IN the wake of news yesterday (Monday, 28 June) that Grays town centre is to get close to half a million pounds spent on improving security and lighting, there has been another potential boost for the borough's civic capital with another announcement from Thurrock Council.

At statement issued this morning says plans to deliver a safer and improved crossing adjacent to Grays rail station have 'progressed to the next stage'.

It says: "Thurrock Council and Network Rail have completed stage three of the eight stage GRIP (Governance for Railway Investment Projects) process after establishing the foundations to drive forward.

"The scheme will see the existing level crossing replaced with a wide pedestrian walkway and two new public squares. Building works set to commence in winter 2022/23 will see striking improvements to the town centre and economic impacts estimated to reach £60 million."

It follows up from the safety work which will be put in place as a result of a successful application for £432,000 that the council believes will establish 'a flourishing night time economy'.

Cabinet member for regeneration Cllr Mark Coxshall is upbeat about the town's future and says:

"The existing level crossing presents a clear safety risk as the number of near misses continues to rise. It also divides the town, severing accessibility to and from the centre and the river.

"This is a milestone in the development of this scheme following significant technical work and consultation. Now, it's time to progress and deliver for our residents and businesses."

As part of that regeneration the council may by buying up properties in the town centre area to facilitate the rail station upgrade.

The statement adds:" The council has also applied for approval to commence a Compulsory Purchase Order to enable scheme delivery only if required. A separate scheme of new commercial/retail/mixed-use units will be incorporated around the public squares to replace any lost units and further improve the economic position of the town.

Cllr Coxshall, summed up by saying: "Grays has suffered from low investment, rising vacancies, and a poor environment for too long.

"These works are only one part of much wider aspirational plans to transform the entire town including an energy-efficient council building with the Register Office and ceremonial gardens for weddings at its heart; and up to £25 million investment through the government's Town Fund to transform Grays into a leisure destination."