IT looks likely that Thurrock Council's new civic chamber will finally be open for business next week.

An extraordinary meeting of the full council has been called for Thursday, 13 October - though no reason has been given why, nor an agenda published.

The chamber, which is located in the authority's new extension, should have been open earlier this year but in a calamatous blunder it was built and furnishd for 35 members. It appears someone failed to check the blueprints or the contractor's work as the council actually has 49 members.

What followed was an almost comic-book caper as the council delved into secretive mode, denying that there was a problem, just some 'snagging issues' but they improsed a news blackout and whitewashed the building's windows so no-one could see in. And councillors were barred from entering it!

The council chamber was built with just 35 seats - not the required 49! This exclusive picture was leaked to Nub News in April from someone shocked to discover the blunder.

At the time the council said: "The main council chamber has been designed, and is being built, to provide seating for all 49 elected members, plus officers and a public gallery. It is being equipped with the latest technology including viewing screens for members and the public gallery and a camera system to allow meetings to be webcast.

"Testing and snagging is currently taking place as fixtures, fittings and furnishings are being finalised. There is no reconfiguration of the structure, or walls being removed."

That statement was made in April - the council has yet to hold a meeting in the room! However, after several months of work it is now poised to host its first meeting - and will do so amid some pomp and ceremony.

Before the meeting, the borough mayor Cllr James Halden has organised a blessing of the old chamber, to be led by Rev Canon Darren Barlow. after that they will proceed to the new chamber for a ceremonial opening of it.

Cllr Halden says: "It will be good to take the time to remember and reflect on the meetings and debates we have held in the old chamber, the decisions that have been made and to then start our new life in the current chamber in a welcoming and positive manner.