Plans to turn the old Canvey Market into a drive-through takeaway are a step closer to becoming a reality.

Councillors have met Bryan Watts, owner of the market site in Canvey High Street, to discuss the restaurant's future and allay locals' fears.

Worried residents have already submitted a petition opposing plans as they were concerned about the heavy traffic, rubbish and noise which could be created by the restaurant.

However, Dennis Williams, chairman of Castle Point Council's planning committee, said: "A traffic impact study will be carried out and the site owners will work with the council and the Highways Authority at Essex County Council to ensure any safety issues are met.

"We will be deferring the issue until next month so we can have more talks but things are looking very positive."

However, many locals are still opposing the plans for the takeaway and around 95 people signed the petition against the plan.

Paul Street, of High Street, Canvey, said: "We need another fast food outlet like a hole in the head."

The future of the site was due to be raised at a meeting of the council's planning committee last night (Tuesday).

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