PLANS to convert the former offices of the Thurrock Gazette into two flats have been rejected by Thurrock planners.

The newspaper publishers vacated its borough offices on Orsett Road in Grays more than a year ago after almost a century and a half of publishing in the borough.

Plans were submitted to Thurrock Council earlier this year to turn the premises into flats but council officers have rejected the proposals.

They say the scale, appearance and prominence of the conversion would fail to reflect the surroundings and would not be sympathetic to the host building.

Officers added: "It is considered that the limited amenity space and lack of a suitable residential environment for future occupiers, as discussed previously is indicative of the overdevelopment of the site to the detriment of future occupants.

In conclusion, the applicant has failed to demonstrate the provision of suitable of off street parking to meet council standards. As a consequence on street is likely to occur to the detriment of pedestrian and vehicular safety."

The full report of planners can be found via this link.