A LAUNDRY boss says he has been left high and dry after his plans to expand a business were knocked back by the council.

Simon Bannister, who runs Canvey Island Ironing and Laundry Services, wanted to expand his business by creating a new laundrette in an empty shop at 326 Long Road on the island.

His proposals were turned down by Castle Point Council’s planning department due to a lack of parking provision.

The building has two designated parking spaces in front of the shop.

However, council officers feared people using the spaces would cause problems with traffic in Long Road and a nearby pedestrian crossing.

Mr Bannister, who has owned the Charfleets Industrial Estate-based business for 18 months, said: “I’m completely gutted.

“I would have thought the council would be backing local businesses, given the country’s economic problems.

“Their general attitude is you’re just a little man and what we say goes.

“The business is going well, but I wanted a shop front so we could get more passing trade.

“I’ve wasted £2,000 on this application and got nowhere.”

Mr Bannister, 44, said there is a parade of six shops on the other side of the road, which have similar parking issues.

He added “It seems like it’s one rule for me and another for everyone else.

“The council have been completely inflexible and unhelpful.”

Dave Blackwell, leader of the Canvey Island Independent Party, agreed.

He said: “No doubt it’s dangerous for cars to park in front of his shop, but there are plenty of other spaces and side roads customers could use.

“The council should have looked at that and been more flexible.”

Norman Smith, councillor for economic regeneration, said: “I can understand the officers’ concerns because that spot has been an accident blackspot and the pedestrian crossing has only recently been put in.

“I certainly don’t like to see an empty shop anywhere.

“Perhaps we could try to support him looking for a suitable shop elsewhere.”