Plans to change the use of the iconic Havens store in Hamlet Court Road have moved a step closer.

An application has been submitted to turn the department store in Westcliff into a vibrant community one-stop-shop for older people.

Planning officers have yet to register the plans, so they have not yet appeared on Southend Council’s website, but the centre is set to house a range of services such as advocacy and bereavement services as well as help for people living with dementia and information on public health services.

As well as offering the services that older people need, the centre will also be a place where they can go to enjoy themselves, meet people and have fun. Along with the keep fit, dancing and other leisure activities offered by Club 50+ , which will be relocated from its existing premises in Queens Road, Southend, the centre will offer older people the opportunity to get their hair done and have beauty treatments. It will also include a large café offering a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks and lunches at a modest cost.

The store announced its impending closure in the summer, citing competition from the internet.

Nigel Havens said: “In 2013 I said the high street will change and evolve - it will not return to its former shopping glory but will need to adapt and provide a social and leisure offering mixed with some specialist shops”.

“Since then high streets have continued to decline with even Mary Portas admitting in August that her “Save the High Street” campaign had failed with one in five shops having closed over the past five years in the 12 towns that took part.”

Mr Havens believes turning the store into a “community experience” for the older people of the town will lead to the revitalisation of Hamlet Court Road as the increased in visitors will lead to higher spending in the road. This will not only benefit existing shops but also encourage new small, specialist independent retailers to open in the area.

Mr Havens added: “It will also keep the much-loved Havens legacy alive, while creating probably the most significant community project to take place in Southend for some time.

“While the council deliberates, Havens will continue to trade through the Christmas period and will finally close by the end of January 2018. The closing down sale is ongoing now.”