Wetherspoon gets permission to convert State Cinema into pub

The chain has been given planning permission to convert the old State Cinema in Grays into a public house.

Thurrock Council’s planning committee gave its approval to the scheme last week amid hopes it will return the building to its former glory, as well as help with the regeneration of the town centre.

Regeneration and planning boss Mark Coxshall said: “This is great news for the regeneration of Grays and coincides with the fantastic announcement that the town is also set to benefit from a £19.9million government cash injection as part of the Grays Town Fund that will help reconnect the high street with the river and create a brand new leisure destination for the whole of Thurrock to enjoy.

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"There has been a great deal of work behind the scenes to get the State back on track and I can’t wait to see its iconic doors finally reopen."

The conversion of the old cinema will see the main lobby and stall foyer restored, while the Compton organ based inside the building will also be retained and refurbished.

Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon, said: "We are delighted with the decision of the council. We are committed to developing the site and once again making it an important part of the town’s social scene.

“The council has a superb plan to regenerate Grays and we are delighted to be a part of that.”