The next step in the regeneration of Grays was marked the Old Courthouse on Orsett Road was officially reopened.

The building will now act as a business centre including start ups.

Thurrrock Council and Nwes are partners in the £3.6million project. £1.4million was contributed from the South East Local Enterprise Partnership’s Growing Places Fund.

Council leader John Kent said: “The town is already becoming more vibrant and more popular with the South Essex College campus to the south and now this building and its businesses at the northern end of the High Street.

“Combined with the news that JD Wetherspoon will be developing the State, and the exciting Vision for Grays proposals being consulted on at the moment, people can see how Thurrock Council is working to make Grays a busier more vibrant and attractive place.”

He added: “This is an iconic building. It is an integral part of the town and we were determined that it would not be left to rot or just demolished and replaced with even more town centre flats .”