THURROCK councillors have approved plans for a new 82‑bed specialist care home in Grays, unlocking a major investment in local elderly care provision and creating around 100 permanent jobs reports the Local Democracy Reporter.
The three‑storey development, to be built on previously under‑used open land at the junction of Dell Road and Orsett Road, was backed by the council’s planning committee on Tuesday.
The scheme replaces an existing permission for a 37‑home residential development and will instead deliver a significantly larger care facility designed to meet rising demand for dementia, palliative and respite care across the borough.
Planning consultant Danny Simmonds, speaking on behalf of the applicant, said the project was being delivered in partnership with the Artesan Care Group, part of Avery Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care operators. He described the proposal as a high‑quality, needs‑led scheme rather than a speculative venture.
“The care home will far exceed Care Quality Commission design standards,” he told councillors. “All rooms will have full en‑suite shower facilities. The proposals maximise an under‑used site in a sustainable location and meet a clear local need.”
He added that the home would help ease pressure on primary care services and bring economic benefits through 100 permanent roles and additional construction employment.
Councillors from both political groups welcomed the plans.
Conservative member Tom Kelly said the design was strong, though he acknowledged concerns over parking. “Care homes are incredibly important, and if this meets our standards there’s little more we can ask,” he said.
Labour councillor Sue Shinnick praised the scheme’s use of long‑derelict land. “With our ageing population, this is exactly the type of investment Thurrock needs,” she said.
Planning officers had recommended approval, noting evidence of a growing shortfall in care beds across the borough. Their report highlighted the site’s sustainable location close to Grays town centre, bus routes and rail services, and concluded the home would also ease wider housing pressures by freeing up family homes as older residents move into specialist accommodation.
Some concerns had been raised over the loss of overgrown open land, potential ecological impact, and traffic pressures. However, technical assessments—including daylight and sunlight studies—found no significant harm, while Essex Highways raised no objections subject to conditions on access, parking layout and a travel plan. The development will also be required to deliver 10 per cent biodiversity net gain and contribute to the Essex Coast RAMS scheme.
