THE long-awaited transformation of Grays town centre could be about to begin – leading the way for a whole host of plans aimed at bringing prosperity to the borough.

The troublesome level crossing, said to be one of the most dangerous in the east of England, could soon make way for a much-mooted pedestrian underpass at the cost of £27.4million.

There’s also work set to start in the spring to make Orsett Road and Crown Road two-way in order to ease congestion around the new-look town centre.

And there’s moves to make parts of the area an enhanced location for smaller, independent and specialist retailers to thrive alongside convenience shops, cafes and restaurants.

In summary, the plans anticipate the growth in Grays will equate to 2,600 homes and 1,600 jobs by 2026.

Planners saying it will become an “exciting, high quality destination for people to live, work, learn, shop and socialise” in.

And, all this comes as the first plan is submitted to transform Lakeside into a town of its own right.

It’s clear 2019 is packed with promises. Let’s hope they arrive.