PLANS have been revealed to transform part of a former restaurant into a large house of multiple occupancy in Rayleigh High Street.

An application has been submitted to Rochford Council for the conversion of a long-vacant building at 156-158 High Street into a 12-room HMO.

The proposed changes involve transforming part of the former Thirteen Fusion restaurant and function room into accommodation for up to 17 residents.

This development plan includes a rear extension, modifications to the building’s exterior, and the addition of a roof terrace.

The building, formerly a ground-floor restaurant with temporary living space above, has been vacant since 2017.

The applicant states that despite ongoing marketing efforts, the site still remains vacant and is now in “visible disrepair”.

After hearing about the application, Rochford councillor Danielle Belton said: “I am extremely disappointed with the plans.

“Thirteen Fusion was a muchloved venue in the town, and I know that other businesses have shown an interest in the premises since it closed in 2017.

“I have always feared that this building was being land-banked for this very reason.

“I do not support the change of use and fear it would be detrimental to our thriving High Street.”

The proposal outlines that part of the commercial space would remain with the rest renovated alongside a rear extension for the HMO.

Key features of the application include six on-site parking spaces, a communal kitchen and dining area on each floor, and dedicated spaces for cycle storage and refuse.

According to the plans, there would be two double rooms, and one single room on the ground floor, with two double rooms, and six single rooms on the first floor.

The planning document adds: “The current building easily allows the conversion of the proposed use and will act as a positive refurbishment of the property, that is currently in a poor state of disrepair especially at first-floor level.

“The redevelopment allows the current use and structure to be effectively split to enhance the proposed living conditions and maintaining a good-sized commercial unit for the High Street.”