THE Planning Inspectorate has overruled Thurrock Council planning officers and given approval to a plan to turn a derelict shop in Chadwell St Mary into a café.

The application was made two years ago to change the permitted use of the empty premises at 53 Riverview.

Even though the building was empty and not being used for any commercial purposes, council officers ruled it was not appropriate to grant permission for the café. The owners ignored that decision and, having launched an appeal – opened the Chadwell Café anyway.

The council said the proposed change to a café would result in the loss of a retail unit in the shopping parade and added: "This would reduce the number of shoppers using the parade even though the premises is not currently trading.

"The council remains concerned that the proposal would have a detrimental impact on the vitality and viability of the neighbourhood parade."

However, the applicants took the decision to appeal and next week's planning committee meeting will be told the green light should be given to the application.

The inspector's full decision can be read via this link.