Details of how a landmark store will be transformed into a one-stop shop for the elderly have been revealed.

An application to for Havens department store in Hamlet Court Road, Westcliff, to be changed to a community building for the elderly have now been submitted to Southend Council.

The historic Grade II listed building which first opened in 1920, is set to house a drop-in cafe at the entrance. The 1980s shopfront displays will be removed giving an unhindered view of the ground floor. This is set to be occupied by Age Concern.

Lin Boulter, chief executive of Age Concern Southend, said: “We are excited. It is going to be a community hub for elderly people. If they are feeling lonely they will always be able to go there to get services or just to say hello. We will have yoga and dance classes and we are hoping people will tell us what else they would like to see there.”

The store’s feature sweeping wooden staircase fell foul of fire safety officers who insisted it is encased to meet fire safety regulations. However, this is set to be glazed “to have minimal impact” on the stairs.

The first floor will be used by the 50+ Club, which will move from its current home in Queen’s Road, Southend. The club provides leisure activities for the elderly and a place to meet and socialise.

Echo:

Back in the day - Hamlet Court Road

Havens, which is set to close at the end of January after competition from online retailers, is set to continue with its own web-based business which it will continue to operate from the second floor of the building.

In its application, the Havens family said: “We wholeheartedly support the proposals.

“And it is refreshing to see an exciting community-driven project breath new life into this historical building, maintaining access for all rather than a vogue trend to convert to luxury apartments as so often occurs.

“We believe the proposal meets and exceeds current local and regional planning guidance.

“It makes excellent use of a historic building.

“The proposal will preserve the Havens legacy whilst breathing new life into the building and community at large.”