THURROCK Council has granted itself permission to demolish the former Tilbury fire station.

Approval for the demolition work has been confirmed. The site will now be cleared in readiness for the new integrated medical centre that is planned, one of four across the borough, along with others in Purfleet, Corringham and Grays.

A council statement says: "Having considered the information accompanying the application here are no objections raised to the proposed demolition of the existing buildings and structures comprising the former Fire Station and Martial Arts Studio, or the schedule of works for the demolition process."

Thurrock Council cabinet member Cllr James Halden said: "The proposed new Integrated Medical Centre in Tilbury will significantly improve the range and quality of health and care services available, and assist in the regeneration of Tilbury Civic Square.

"It will bring modern social care, community health, hospital and GP services together under one roof, much closer to the communities of Tilbury and Chadwell."

Work is now underway on the first build, at Corringham. The whole medical centres package, which when complete will mean the closure of Orsett Hospital, is running somewhat behind scheuled.

When plans for the Tilbury site were first announced the council said: "Subject to consultation and planning processes, it is planned that the building work will be completed by the end of 2021."