PLANS to extend a popular café in Chadwell St Mary have been recommended for refusal by Thurrock Council over concerns about the impact on the local street scene.

Amareta Café in River View, has submitted a planning application seeking permission to build a single-storey front extension to create a permanent covered seating area.

The café currently offers outdoor seating in its forecourt, which is privately owned and not part of the public highway.

While planning officers acknowledged there were no objections in principle to the proposal, they raised concerns about the design, siting, and visual impact of the extension. The proposed structure would have projected 4.4 metres forward and measured 6.9 metres in width, with a flat roof and glazed aluminium panels. Officers described the design as "square, utilitarian and functional," likening it to a conservatory.

The café is part of a small retail parade of four units, all with residential flats above. The terrace is situated on the south side of River View, between Kingsley Walk and Thames Drive. Planning officers noted that no other front extensions exist within the parade or the wider area, and said the proposal would appear "incongruous" and dominate views from the public realm.

"The siting of the extension, along with its forward projection, exacerbates its exposed and prominent location," the report stated. "The proposal would be harmful to the character and appearance of the immediate street scene and wider shopping parade."

Despite receiving one written comment in support - highlighting the café's role in hosting community events and contributing to the local economy — the application was deemed contrary to local planning policies which relate to design, character, and the protection of the public realm.

The café's supporters argued the extension would enhance the visual appeal of the area and help the business grow. However, planning officers concluded that the harm to the street scene outweighed the potential benefits.

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The planning committee will decide on the application next week (Tuesday, 14 October).

Amareta Café remains open and continues to operate with its existing outdoor seating area.