OBSERVERS of Thurrock Council's controversial multi-million plans to extend the civic offices can now keep a watchful eye on the project thanks to a time-lapse camera the authority has installed.

Work has already started on the building and a central core of the new building – the lift shaft – is going up. You can see the latest pictures here.

The council says the extension is the "first of many transformational projects set to regenerate the town".

A statement adds: "These works kick-start huge regeneration plans across the town and will also mean the oldest part of the current Civic Centre building can be used to build much needed town centre homes on brownfield sites rather than greenbelt land.

"The extension will also help the council reduce its carbon footprint, decrease building costs and provide new multi-functional community space."

Cllr Mark Coxshall, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Strategic Planning, said: "The Civic Centre extension leads the way for Thurrock's ambitious redevelopment plans to transform Grays stretching from the River Thames to the very heart of the town, creating a better place to live, work, play and learn. It will be fantastic to be able to watch and document the town's transformation starting with the civic building."

The council and Cllr Coxshall remain upbeat about the future of Grays and its transformation.