A WEIGHT loss centre including treatment rooms, a pool, gym and guest rooms will be replacing a disused pub.

It comes as Thurrock Council's planning committee approved the plans for the former Harrow Inn, Bulphan, the long-disused building will be demolished to make way for a weight loss and wellness centre.

Believed to be the first of its kind in the country, it will feature five treatment rooms, gymnasium, swimming pool, dance studio, lounge and dining rooms, as well as 21 guest rooms.

Thurrock’s planning committee approved the building of the centre.

Speaking after the meeting, Tom Kelly, chairman of the planning committee said: “It is always welcome when Thurrock leads the way on providing services which will benefit our residents and the wider public.

“The land the centre will occupy has been derelict for some time and subjected to fly-tipping. The committee are pleased this land will be used for more productive means.”