THAMESIDE Theatre will not close until a replacement is up and running.

Thurrock Council moved to reassure residents over the future of the complex in Orsett Road, Grays.

Rob Gledhill, leader of the council, said: “The administration is committed to the regeneration of Grays town centre. I made this clear in my statement five days ago and I reiterate that point now.

“Central to the future of Grays is the re-provision of a new, modern and fit for purpose theatre.

“I’m concerned it is being portrayed that this administration has reneged on their previous commitment that the Thameside Complex will remain open until a new provision is available. That simply is not true.

“To be very clear - Thameside will remain open until new provision is available.”

Mr Gledhill added: “We cannot ignore the fact that the Thameside Complex currently costs the taxpayers of this borough £1 million in council subsidy each year. This cannot continue when other council provided services are also in need of significant investment. A review is underway to assess the market for a theatre, what the provision should look like and where in Grays it should go.

“The council still awaits the outcome of its funding bid for nearly £11 million to create an underpass in Grays to link the north and south of the town together. If we are successful, this significant funding will be the catalyst to really drive the exciting regeneration plans in the town.”