THE Development Corporation has unveiled a £7.4million plan to restore the historic State Cinema to its former glory.

A feasibility study for the disused Grade II listed building in George Street, commissioned by Thurrock Thames Gateway Development Corporation in November 2009, has just been completed and recommends a mix of uses to breathe new life into the building.

The proposal, which will now be presented to the owner of the building, TSP Properties, for consideration, sees the landmark comprising a three screen cinema, live entertainment venue, with a restaurant, coffee shop, bar, and banqueting facilities.

DC spokesman Sarah Barnes, said: “The State is a rare example of a 1930’s cinema in its original condition. It is an important landmark in Grays centre, and the Development Corporation Thurrock Council felt it important to consider how it might be brought back into use to assist the regeneration of the town”.

The State Cinema first opened in 1938 and retains many of its original art deco features, including the original Compton cinema organ, one of just a handful to survive in their original locations in cinemas.

The plan would also see the street frontage of the building improved to make it more attractive, with a new terrace, and the relighting of the tower and the State logo.

The original 30’s decor inside, particularly in the auditorium, ground floor foyer, and the first floor bar, is also earmarked for restoration.

The building was first put on the Buildings at Risk Register in 1991, in 1992 it was removed from the register after the cinema was refurbished and re-opened.

In 1996 the building was placed back on the register after it was closed and sold to supermarket giant Morrisons, as part of a deal which allowed it to build a new store and carpark, it has remained vacant ever since.

It was reportedly sold to current owners TSP Properties for £550,000 in October 2006.

The building, which is now leaky and pigeon infested, has been the subject of a long running community campaign calling for the Development Corporation or Thurrock Council to compulsorily purchase it and re-open it as a cinema.

The campaign, bolstered by a 1,885 strong Facebook group, is also supported by the Cinema and Theatre Association.