A COUNCILLOR has called on his local community - and Thurrock Council - not to give up on a local town centre.

Cllr Shane Ralph, who represents Stanford East and Corringham Town ward, has spoken up against plans for a new cafe in Corringham's shopping parade.

He says the town has enough eating places and the council should stand by a previous decision not to grant planning permission for another in the hope other retail businesses could step in.

He was speaking after Thurrock Nub News exclusively reported that plans for a new cafe in Corringham had been submitted, asking for a change of use on the premises. (See story via the red button below).

Cllr Ralph says: "I understand some people will disagree with my objection to another cafe in Corringham but I have been contacted by local residents and business owners.

"There are already six sit down eating establishments in Corringham town centre and a total of 10 establishments including the takeaway shops.

"First of all I feel this will not add any value to the town centre or bring in more people. This could also impact local businesses by taking their trade away.

"More importantly I feel, and residents feel, it's yet another shop that actually doesn't sell us items or offers a service. When we look back at the shops we once had in the town it makes a sad list. Toy shop, Bike shop, Shoe shops, Curtain shop, Music and video shops, Computer shops, Clothing shops....

"Rents are high in the town and business rates don!t help local traders that are struggling to stay open.

"Soon you will only be going up town to eat or get your hair and nails done.

"It becomes even more important to support our local traders like the Veg stall and and butcher shops, DIY shop and Betties Bits and Bob's.

"Corringham town centre can survive the world wide retail outlet slump if we don't give up on it. We really need to make sure we have the right balance of shops for our town."