THURROCK planning councillors, in their last decision before a new committee will be formed in the new civic year after May's elections, unanimously backed a development in the heart of Corringham that will see demolition of the existing Springhouse Sports Club and its buildings - which will be replaced by 81 new homes and a new sports and social facility, including an artificial grass pitch with floodlighting.

At Tuesday's (14 april) meeting planning officers said the plans offer "significant improvements" to local sports provision, with new facilities including badminton courts, a climbing wall, gym and studio space, pétanque terrain, a dedicated bowls green, two bars, a café/restaurant and outdoor terrace.

The new facilities will be open to the wider community on a pay‑to‑play basis rather than to club members only.

Speaking in support of the proposal, brought forward by Stonebond Properties and Springhouse Club, Labour ward councillor John Cecil, who represents Stanford East and Corringham Town, described the club in Springouse Road, as a "pillar of the community" and said the scheme was essential to its long‑term survival.

"I want members to understand how closely my family, friends and neighbours are tied to this club," he said. "The directors have been searching for a way to secure its future, and I genuinely believe this scheme fits the bill."

He said the existing building was no longer viable, with high maintenance and heating costs, adding: "The roof is a constant running cost. The heating bills are huge. The new building will be zero fossil fuel with significantly reduced running costs."

Under the plans, a new purpose-built sports and social club will be constructed before the existing one is demolished. Facilities will include a sports hall, gym, climbing wall, dance and studio spaces, café and bar, a full‑size floodlit 3G pitch for football and hockey, a replacement bowls green and space for activities such as table tennis and short‑mat bowls.

"We won't lose the club at any point," Cllr Cecil added. "The intention is that we move from the old building straight into the new one."

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Applicant Sean Martin, speaking on behalf of Springhouse Club and Stonebond, said the proposals were the result of more than four years of work with council officers, consultees and residents.

He told councillors the existing club, founded in 1950, has around 2,000 members but the building was nearing the end of its lifespan and had become increasingly expensive to maintain.

Mr Martin said the 81 homes – a mix of one‑ to four‑bed properties – were "enabling development" needed to fund the new facilities. No affordable housing is included after an independently reviewed viability assessment concluded additional contributions would make the scheme unworkable.

Council officers said the development would deliver "substantial public benefits", safeguard an important community asset and provide improved, more accessible sports facilities, and recommended approval subject to conditions and a legal agreement.