82-bed care home at Land Adjacent Dell Road And Orsett Road, Grays

What was proposed

The application proposed an 82-bed C2 care home with parking, landscaping, amenity areas, cycle storage, refuse facilities and electric vehicle charging points.

“This application seeks full planning permission for the construction of an 82 bed care home (Class C2) at the junction with Dell Road and Orsett Road, Grays on an undeveloped parcel of land. The proposal would provide off street parking provision accessed via Dell Road, which includes EV charging points, secure cycle storage, designated refuse area and associated landscaping.”

“Contribution towards an unmet need for residential care homes (C2) in Thurrock • Temporary employment opportunities during the construction phase of the development and circa 100 jobs at the care home once operational • Located in an urban area close to Grays town centre benefitting from convenient and sustainable travel connections • Easy access to Grays Town Park and Grays Town Centre, providing access to green space, and increasing opportunities for social interaction •…”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The 0.6-hectare undeveloped site was beside Dell Road and Orsett Road, near homes, community facilities, Grays town centre, transport links and Grays Town Park.

“The application site is located on the eastern side of Dell Road and north of Orsett Road, and it is 0.6 hectare in size. The site previously comprised overgrown grassland, although this appears to have been recently removed, along with some shrubbery. There are a number of trees and hedges on the perimeter of the site which remain and are enclosed by…”

“The site is approximately 100m from the defined Grays town centre and walking distance to Grays train station. The nearest bus stops are approximately 50m away on Hathaway Road, with bus stops also available nearby on Orsett Road. Grays Town Park, is located close by on the opposite side of Orsett Road.”

Officer report

Earlier planning history

The site had permission for 37 homes, following an earlier withdrawn housing application, and had received advice about an 82-bedroom care home.

“Application Reference Description of Proposal Decision 19/01319/FUL Construction of 35 dwellings (15 apartments and 20 houses) with associated access, parking and amenity areas Withdrawn 23/01496/FUL Construction of 37 residential dwellings Approved…”

“(mix of houses and apartments), together with access, car parking, landscaping / amenity areas and associated works 19.03.2025 (and subject to s106 Legal Agreement) 25/30095/PMAJ Construction of an 82 bedroom care home (use class c2) Advice given…”

Officer report

What residents said

Two written responses were received: one supported the landscaping, while one objected on grounds including traffic, parking, habitat, design, light and infrastructure.

“This application has been advertised via consultation letters, displaying of a site notice near the site and a press notice. Two written responses have been received; one is support; and one objection. The following concerns have been raised:”

“- Bird boxes placed on trees across the site; query on species of birds these are aimed at - The site was originally allocated to be used as allotments, no notification of this change of use has been served - Loss of habitat where wildlife are present - Increase in traffic - Land degradation as a result of it being developed - Additional on road parking and congestion on local roads - Environmental impacts to air quality - Design is out of character - Loss of natural light -…”

Officer report

Who spoke

A speaker gave a statement on behalf of the applicant.

Members’ discussion

Members welcomed the care home but raised parking concerns and asked about the school, outdoor space and parking evidence.

“Members sought further clarification from officers regarding parking. Officers confirmed the applicant provided evidence and they are overproviding (on the basis of similar schemes they operate). The location of the care home is in the town centre and there are car parks within walking distance. Officers added condition 14 includes a Travel Plan which included encouraging staff to walk and cycle.”

“Members stated it was a good scheme, however expressed some concerns about parking. Members welcomed the care home adding that it was great for the older generation.”

Minutes

The decision

The Chief Planning Officer was authorised to approve the application subject to the conditions in section 16 of the report.

“That the Chief Planning Officer be authorised to APPROVE the application for the development subject to those conditions set out in section 16 of the report: - A) Conditions…”

Minutes