Leading councillor Dennis Williams has announced his resignation as chairman of Castle Point Council's planning committee.

Mr Williams - a borough councillor for 25 years and planning chairman for two years - said he no longer had confidence in his committee.

His vice-chairman Barrie Dixie has also resigned to show support for his friend.

During his time as chairman of planning, Mr Williams has been presented with controversial applications including the application for a fast food restaurant on Canvey.

At a planning meeting last week, members unexpectedly - against officers advice - turned down the application by Hadleigh bakery to put in a fast food restaurant in High Street, Canvey.

At the same meeting, members also dramatically reversed their opinion on controversial plans for car auctions and sales at Haven Road, Canvey, refusing the application.

Council leader Dave Wells said: "Dennis has done a good job representing the people of the borough and I am sorry to see him go."

When asked what he thought of Mr Williams's suggestion that planning decisions had not been taken on planning grounds alone Mr Wells said: "I will be looking into that."

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