A VETERINARY surgery once operated by a disgraced vet could be transformed into a new restaurant and takeaway.

A planning application has been submitted to Thurrock Council to turn the Anne Mullen Vet Clinic, 106 High Street, Aveley into a restaurant on the ground floor. Existing, occupied flats above will remain.

The vet was struck off in February last year after leaving an English bulldog alone following surgery, which caused him to go blind. The building could now see happier times.

A report to planning officers said: "The proposal would provide good internal seating for patrons to enjoy hot cooked food, especially for shoppers, whilst also providing a new food outlet service for the local community.

"The proposal intends to also provide much needed economic boost to the existing area by providing a new hot food outlet within the locality with seating thereby attracting patrons from the local community and businesses. The introduction of a new business and hot food outlet would in turn also provide the employment of extra staff from the community."

The proposed restaurant would incorporate acoustic insulation, between the extraction flue system and the ceiling. Anti-vibration mounts would also suppress any noise from the system reaching along the route of the flue. The motor of the extraction systems would be incorporated within the rear section of the flue with added extra acoustic insulation and anti-vibration mounts.

The site has a car parking for patrons a short walk away and additional parking at the front for delivery scooters.

The site will utilise the existing rear yard for refuse storage and collection which is accessed via either New Matlings or the High Street.

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A separate application seeks permission for a two-bedroom bungalow to the rear of the site.

A report said: "The proposal will provide the area with a new dwelling and release the potential of the vacant land to supply housing for those looking at step on the housing-ladder."

It adds: "The proposal ideally addresses the need for housing within Thurrock which has a shortage of housing for both council tenants and private renters. The proposed structure in comparison to neighbouring properties is minimal in nature and sympathetic to the host site but more importunely ensures there is no form of loss of privacy or amenity."