CONTROVERSIAL plans to turn one of the smallest pubs in Essex into a takeaway on Southend seafront have been thrown out by the council.

Businessman John Remblance, who owns the pub and a number of seafront arcades, is behind plans to turn the Cornucopia, on Marine Parade, into a takeaway after claiming it is no longer viable as a pub and was making a “significant loss”.

However, plans have now been refused by Southend Council over concerns it could cause harm to the character and appearance of the building – despite Mr Remblance promising to leave the outside of the pub untouched.

Mr Remblance purchased the pub, dating back to 1854, in 2022 and carried out a £13,000 revamp but closed the pub last year after it failed to make a profit.

As part of his plan, he aimed to offer a “healthy alternative” to the seafront fish and chips on offer by selling chicken and salad.

Southend Council’s planning officers ruled there was not enough information in the application to ensure the heritage of the building would be protected.

Colin Campbell, councillor responsible for economic growth and investment, said: “It is a shame to lose a pub with such history and community importance.

“However, pubs have been struggling for years, and they will only survive if the custom is there.

“As a city, we simply do not want empty premises. Southend is open to business, and I encourage all types to come here, employ local people, and contribute to our local economy.

“It is pleasing that the owner doesn’t wish to change any of the aesthetics of the building, and it’s paramount we save this heritage instead of building more ghastly and ‘modern’ buildings.

“While the planning application has not been deemed to be acceptable under current framework, I would be pleased to see a new application submitted – that is acceptable under policy and protects its character.”

According to the plans, there would have only been internal changes to the building to create a kitchen.

The officers report concluded: “Insufficient information has been submitted to demonstrate that the proposed change of use would not be materially harmful to the character and appearance of the locally listed building.”