Around 450 new jobs could be created with a new development on the former Truckworld site in West Thurrock.
Plans for 26 units for industrial, storage and distribution on the ten acre site have just been approved by Thurrock Thames Gateway Development Corporation.
But although the prospect of new jobs has been welcomed, concerns have also been raised.
Georgette Polley, chairman of Thurrock Council's planning committee, said she was worried about where the 400 lorries, which used the former lorry park site every day, would now go.
She said: "If we are going to be the logistics hub of South East England, we need the facilities for these lorry drivers. There is a danger they will be forced into backstreets and residential areas.
"It would be churlish not to welcome the fact this new development will bring new jobs. We have been promised new jobs for borough residents and an increase in opportunities for skills.
"However, warehousing jobs tend not to be high-skilled jobs and are already proving a factor in bringing low skill, migrant workers to the area."
The site in Oliver Road has been already been cleared.
Rosemound Developments' plans include a landscaping scheme to screen the new buildings.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article