SCORES of residents have had their say following last week’s Gazette revelation that the State Cinema, in Grays, is set to become a Wetherspoons pub.

A lot of upbeat feeling towards the vacant Grade II-listed building finally being put to use has been tempered by those who’d rather see it kept as a cinema or theatre.

Concerns over late-night safety and possible drunken behaviour, coupled with disappointment at the building not remaining as an entertainment venue were the main grumbles.

Visitors to the Gazette’s Facebook site were mixed in their views.

James Kerin said: “I don’t get everyone’s problem? The pub welcomes families and you can get a nice cheap family meal. The place will be busy.

Wetherspoons is always busy.”

Others weren’t so positive. Eddie Stringer commented: “They should do a deal with a theatre company and turn it into a proper theatre attracting major touring shows. Many towns in the UK do this in conjunction with the council.

I don’t think a pub is the answer.”

Neill Turner added: “What a waste of a building? Why not make it into a play centre or something for kids?”

Thurrock Council leader, John Kent, said negotiations were continuing over the sale for the State, adding: “The council did look at the possibilities of investing in the building, but that would have cost the local council taxpayers in the region of £12million to £15million to buy, refurbish, and conserve.”

For more, see Letters page in this weeks Gazette.