A proposed community centre in Aveley took a step forward after facilities for the building were announced, which include a library, a café and a nursery.

The announcement came in a Thurrock Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, December 13, after they agreed to secure a building contractor for the site.

Councillor Mark Coxshall presented the report which gave an overview of the progress to date, consultation and design as well as outlining the next steps.

He said: "A new community hub in Aveley has been long discussed so I'm pleased that cabinet has supported a vision for turning those discussions into a reality.

"There has been extensive public consultation – importantly, involving the Aveley Village Community Forum in discussions from the beginning.

"I'm pleased that the planned works have taken into consideration the local needs of the area and have created – I believe – a modern building which has been planned with the community at the centre.

"What's more, £1m of the funding for the project will be sourced from Section 106 funds while the rest will be funded through the Community Hubs capital fund.”

The expected design of the building will include:

a hall

a common room

a youth centre

office space

reception areas

a self-serve library facility

a community café

a nursery