THE future of Grays town was the focus of Thurrock Council’s cabinet when it met on Wednesday (17 December) evening.
Two items – the town centre transport study, and one entitled Grays South and Rail Station Regeneration – were being discussed.
Council Leader, Cllr John Kent, took both together, saying: “There’s a lot happening in Grays at the moment.
“On Monday I met with Julian Drury the managing director of c2c to publicise our agreement on work to be done to improve rail services for passengers across the borough, not just in Grays.
”In addition, we have in front of us tonight proposals to make the town more accessible for cyclists and motorists wanting to come here and shop or to use the public transport facilities; and to recognise the work that’s been done – the so-called Memorandum of Understanding – with Network Rail that shows the role of both organisations to design the project, put the necessary land toget6her, and actually build the underpass.”
He said the aim was not only to improve safety at the crossing, but to create a link between the two halves of the town and eliminate the railway as “a barrier”.
Cllr Kent added: “We already know about the college which opened in September, the works to the Magistrates’ Court and the building of new homes at Seabrooke Rise which well on the way to completion, bringing new homes and jobs to the town.
“Building on this momentum and enhancing and improving Grays’ railway station and its surrounding area will provide a much stronger entry point, improving safety and removing the barrier effect of the level crossing – undoubted vital elements of the ongoing regeneration of Grays.
Tonight’s decision won’t mean changes overnight, but it will be an important step in delivering the underpass, demonstrating the commitment of both ourselves and Network Rail to work together and deliver it.
“The second item, the Grays Town Centre Transport Study, is looking at allowing traffic to travel around Grays in both directions – much as it used to do – but with the added improvements of better cycle and public transport links encouraging people to come into town on two wheels or two feet wherever possible.
“We have also learned from past mistakes and are suggesting that these plans are not set in stone, but are – first of all – out for consultation; and – second – given time to settle in before any final decisions are taken, and yes you will be able to turn left out of the multi-storey and go straight on after coming down Orsett Road.
“I am hopeful that the two items we’re discussing tonight – along with the agreement we’ve announced with c2c and the other projects I’ve touched on – will reinvigorate the town.
“When you put all of these projects together, there can be no doubt Thurrock Council is working hard to ensure the future of Grays – and the future of the borough as a whole – is a bright one.”
