THE patience of Thurrock Council with the owner of the State Cinema building in Grays appears to have run out – with the issue of notices of pending enforcement.

The dilapidated Grade II* listed building in the heart of Grays town centre has been the epicentre of discussion and debate for more than three decades, but despite many promises of regeneration from previous owners and the current one, the building continues to decay.

Things finally appeared to have taken a turn for the better earlier this year when the firm that currently owns the building, London Development Global Limited – and its principal Naveed Ahmad - announced plans to bring the building back to life as a 57-bedroom hotel with banqueting services, spa and gym suite.

But like many broken promises before, it may be a false dawn.

Over recent months the building has visibly decayed further and there are a number of access points that mean anyone could enter the building with relative ease.

Complaints have been made to the council – and to the owners, with little visible outcome.

However, notices have now appeared on the building that indicate the council is planning to take action and have given the owners 48 hours notice of its intent. Mr Ahmad has been named as a person with direct responsibility.

Download our Nub News App!

- It’s FREE and available now
- Breaking news notifications
- Your Town in Your Pocket

Related stories:

Pictures show how easy it is to get into the State: https://thurrock.nub.news/news/local-news/concern-over-children-getting-access-to-state-cinema-site-292823

Campaigners live in hope: https://thurrock.nub.news/news/local-news/hoardings-highlight-the-past-as-grays-state-cinema-but-resdients-and-campaigners-await-word-on-the-future-281442

Giveaways in Grays: https://thurrock.nub.news/news/local-news/giveway-in-grays-as-prelude-to-state-planning-application-submission-283329

Concern mounts of State Cinema site: https://thurrock.nub.news/news/local-news/concern-over-lack-of-visible-progress-of-repairs-and-patching-at-state-cinema-251732