I WOULD like to congratulate Thurrock Council’s planning committee for their common sense and community supporting decision to approve the housing development at the former Sports and Social Club, Aveley.

This will not only provide good quality homes (not ugly flats) for families but also allow the vulnerable children who attend Tree Tops School to enjoy a first class sports hall.

It will expand the provision of football pitches at Belhus where there is an ever-expanding demand and improve the standards of leisure facilities.

I know some people in Aveley object to the project and I have some sympathy with that point of view, but it is said that one cannot make an omelette without breaking eggs and if interests, like mine, are in the whole borough we cannot continue to reject every one of these types of housing applications.

Yes it is true I am a Grays Athletic FC supporter and the Blues may indirectly benefit from the approval and be assisted in the building of their new football ground back within the town’s perimeter.

The committee meets in the next couple of months to, hopefully, ratify their decision – let us hope they remain resolute and give full approval.

GEORGE WATTS Crammavill Street, Grays.