Council announces action is underway to 'Save The State'

AFTER many months of inaction, other than the odd 'running repair' to fix security breaches, the owner of Grays' derelict State cinema appears to have engaged in some serious attempt to make the building watertight and safe from further corrosion due to the weather.

The move appears to be in advance of a long-awaited planning application to Thurrock Council to bring the Grade-II* listed building back into use.

The building's owner, Naveed Ahmad of London Developments has previously outlined his plans to Thurrock Nub News to restore the building as a function centre and add hotel rooms on higher levels.

To that effect Mr Ahmad's company has been in discussions with Thurrock Council and Historic England about its proposals.

Now signs of work at the much-loved and iconic Art Deco-style building have appeared.

Scaffolding has been erected and new signs have been put up indication a start of work by specialist contractors.

Over recent years Thurrock Nub News has documented the changes of ownership of the building, including the ultimately doomed project by pub chain JD Wetherspoon to turn it into a themed pub.

It's now almost 18 months since the building's latest owner took possession.

Over many years Thurrock Council has come under significant criticism for its lack of action to enforce legislation that would have protected the building.

In December last year, a detailed Thurrock Nub News investigation into the status of the building included a comment from the council that it was 'still talking'.

Today (Friday, 24 January) the council made an announcement about recent events, giving itself credit for its involvement.

The statement says: "Thanks to pressure brought to bear by Thurrock Council, in cooperation with Historic England, work has begun to repair the roof of the State Cinema, making the building watertight and protecting historic internal features."

Cllr Lee Watson, the council's portfolio holder for good growth, said: "We are well aware of the historic importance of the State Cinema, which is why we have made it a priority to ensure that vital repairs take place to the roof to prevent even further damage to its interior.

"We have ensured the owner knows just how important this iconic building is to our residents and the borough, and that the owner is aware of their duty to maintain the fabric of the State Cinema and to do all they can to protect what remains of its original features.

"Throughout this process we have worked, and will continue to work with, Historic England to ensure that all works are appropriate and carried out in a way that protects the building's integrity and heritage.

The state of the State.

"We hope that very soon we will receive a formal application for the reuse of the building.

"We are pleased to see that the owner is taking their responsibilities for this building and its heritage seriously. This also shows just how important the work Historic England and the council have been doing has been.

"The Council will continue working with both Historic England and the owners to ensure The State Cinema is protected."