DESPITE messages of support from a business next door and a flat above, a third bid to create a restaurant in the site of a former launderette on London Road in Grays has been withdrawn by the applicant – following a cluster of opposition from neighbouring residents who have expressed concerns about parking and other issues.

There have been two previous bids to change the use of the premises at 206 London Road to restaurant, replacing the former Total Launderette.

The first, for a hot food takeaway, was rejected in 2003 and a subsequent appeal against the rejection was also lost.

In November last new a new application was put before Thurrock Council planners but that was rejected in February this year.

Planners said that the business would have an unacceptable impact on the amenity of neighbouring occupiers and the proposal would 'provide deficient vehicle parking in an area already heavily oversubscribed for parking'.

The decision notice added: "Failure to provide adequate parking provision within the site will result in vehicles being displaced on-street to the detriment of highway safety and efficiency. The intensification of vehicles around the proposal would affect free and safe flow of traffic on London Road."

However, almost immediately a new application was submitted by Mr Sabah Sokolaj – only to run into criticism from local residents.

However, there was support from the hair salon next door and its owner, Mrs Elibjonda Byberi said: "After numerous talks with the owner of the unit on 206 London Road, I wanted to voice my passionate support and approval for a restaurant to open next door.

"It's no surprise that these past few months have been the most challenging in people's lives, professionally and personally. Take my salon for example. I started with an empty unit, employed 2 members of staff, built a fantastic client base and then almost instantly everything was taken away. This may come across as selfish as some of my support is based on what the opening of this restaurant could do for my business being next door.

"However, more importantly, we also think about what it could do for surrounding businesses and the community. There is nothing similar anywhere nearby for the community to enjoy and I truly believe this will raise spirits when it is open. You just have to look at the map and realise how close this will be to South Stifford, Badgers Dene and even Grays Town Centre. It will give our community a place to enjoy delicious food within walking distance from their houses.

"As an existing business owner next door to this unit, we have a constant flow of clients throughout the day and I can honestly say we have never had any issues with parking."

And the occupant of the flat above, Miss Georgina Dragoi was also supportive, saying the new business would boost the quality of the area, saying: "I live in the flat above 204 and 206 London Road. I have no complaints about the restaurant as it has been abandoned for many years.

"There used to be mice and rats everywhere, there was damp and leaks that have now been fixed. There was a lot of rubbish in the building meaning that there was a very bad smell. I'm very glad that now someone has taken over and made something good of the horrible place it used to be.

"My home used to be very unattractive, now it has been cleaned up and the building looks more cheerful. I am one of the residents that will mostly be affected by the restaurant and I have no complaints or concerns. The restaurant will bring a lot of joy to the community, I can't wait for it to open and I wish them all the best."

But those shows of support were outnumbered by neighbor comments which are summed up in this objection: "This planning permission should not be approve because there is lack of parking for residents living in the area.

"This will add pressure in regards to parking and create disturbance, overcrowding and noise. The area already struggles with lack of parking space for local residents.

"This planning application is totally unacceptable. It will create more parking problems, we already have excessive problems here due to the shop, hairdressers and barbers. We regularly have cars left over and even in our driveway.

"There is never enough parking for residents let alone customers to these shops.

"The debris they leave behind is disgusting, and noise levels when they slam doors and chat outside is unacceptable and sometimes intimidating. If further parking is required for this restaurant it will only escalate these issues."

The council has now announced the application has been withdrawn.