THURROCK planning councillors are finally set to debate an application to build a new logistics park in the borough.

The scheme, on land adjacent to Watts Wood, including Mardyke Farm and Ship Lane, also includes the creation of a £2 million community hub for local organisations and Essex Boys and Girls Clubs, alongside recreational spaces like an adventure play area, outdoor gym, cricket pitch, and dog adventure playground.

It has been the centre of divided local opinion – with its supporters highlighting the benefits in terms of jobs and the local economy, as well as the community benefits.

On the other hand, some local residents have campaigned against it, saying it will eat up valuable green belt land and add to the removal of open space that defines Purfleet and Aveley as 'separate' communities.

Following a site visit by members of the committee it should have been debated at last month's meeting, but was deferred when the committee was unable to ascertain which of its members were eligible to sit and make a decision.

Prior to the deferment members told that a late consultation response had been received from National Highways, removing their objection to the proposal. That seems sure to feature heavily in the forthcoming debate.

The site location.

Planning officers are recommending refusal of the scheme.

However, ahead of Thursday's meeting of the planning committee, its backers have again highlighted the benefits of the proposal.

In a statement to Thurrock Nub News they say the proposed development offers an array of substantial benefits, including:

1. Job Creation: A total of 703 on-site jobs spanning various roles, from warehouse workers to engineers, plus 174 construction jobs and 522 indirect construction positions, along with 211 jobs in local shops and services. Directly addressing Thurrock Council's demand for more local employment opportunities in the west of the Borough, making a tangible impact on the community.

2. Financial Contributions: A significant Total S106 contribution package of around £5.5 million, coupled with £2.4 million in annual business rates, and a direct net additional Gross Value Added (GVA) of £134 million for the regional economy.

3. Endorsement and Compliance: Backed by the approvals of National Highways, Natural England, and the Environment Agency, ensuring a strong foundation of regulatory compliance.

4. Infrastructure Enhancements: Introducing a £2.4 million roundabout on Ship Lane, a HGV prevention strategy for Aveley, and enforcement cameras on Ship Lane to prevent left-turns out of Mardyke Park and J31, M25 to ensure that junction remains unobstructed.

5. Environmental Commitment: Featuring operationally net zero carbon proposals, reflecting a dedication to environmental responsibility.

6. Community Enrichment: A £2 million community hub for local organisations and Essex Boys and Girls Clubs, alongside recreational spaces like an adventure play area, outdoor gym, cricket pitch, and dog adventure playground.

7. Investment in Education: Contributions of £50,000 towards local area employment initiatives, including degree apprenticeships and Logistics Academy, and £25,000 for an educational walkway in Watts Wood.

8. Safety and Amenities: Introducing a secure perimeter fence for scouts' safety and a new Mardyke boardwalk, elevating accessibility and leisure opportunities.

9. Continuous Monitoring: A commitment of £10,000 to Thurrock Council for ongoing application monitoring, ensuring transparency and accountability. Regular update reporting to Thurrock Council.

10. Community Support: The proposals enjoy backing, evident through 118 letters of support and a 163-signature petition in support.

Thurrock Nub News will be covering Thursday's meeting and will bring you the outcome of the debate on the night.