A popular business owner is appealing to residents to help block a planning proposal which will see her site demolished.

Jo Stokes owns Bodycare gym, which has been a mainstay in High Road, Benfleet, for the last 34 years.

But it is now under threat after the owner of the building submitted a planning application to demolish the building and build 14 sheltered flats on the site.

The gym currently has 500 members and employs 15 staff.

Mrs Stokes said: “Bodycare is a local and friendly gym where members of all ages, shapes and sizes enjoy huge benefits to their health and well-being, as well as the all important social aspects of belonging to a club.

“If the proposed plans were to be agreed what message does this send to the community about the value of staying fit and healthy?

“With a 500-member club, employing 15 staff, who collectively raised in excess of £30,000 for local charities in recent years, Bodycare is a business Castle Point should proud of, not one it is set to “bulldoze”.

“Many of Bodycare’s members are retired, they walk to the club and really enjoy their workouts.

“Is it morally responsible to take this facility away from them? Bodycare and the services it offers is the very essence of a great residential amenity and along with all who use the club, should be protected from the power of the property developers pound.”

The plans are proposed for 191 to 193 High Road, Benfleet, which currently homes Image Flooring and Bodycare gym, as well as flats on the first floor.

The plush plans include a roof garden as well as a balcony for every flat.

Mrs Stokes added: “The future of our town is being compromised if small businesses are cast aside. The proposed housing will benefit only those occupying the 14 flats – what about the benefit to the 500 members of Bodycare who are trying hard and succeeding at staying fit and healthy?”

Objections can be submitted until Wednesday, through Castle Point’s planning portal with reference 18/0035/FUL.