PLANS to convert an old Southend office block into a 60-bed care home have been refused by councillors.

Runwood Homes wants to turn the Victoria House office block in Victoria Avenue into a nursing home, with shops and a cafe.

The proposal was also to extend the 1960s block from the back, with two five-storey extensions connected to the first floor, with a terrace, as well as 43 car parking spaces. The fifth and sixth floors of the building would have been for office use.

But councillors at the development control committee rejected the scheme because of concerns about the loss of office space in the town.

Labour councillor Mike Royston said: “I was opposed to this application when it came before us previously and I continue to hold the view this site is totally wrong for a care home.

“We need to keep office facilities in this area for the end of the recession.”

However, Tory councillor Pat Rayner, backed the scheme. She said: “Most of that office space has been empty since before the recession.

“It’s in a disgraceful state. Either we do something with it or we pull the whole lot down. Something has got to be done.”

Officers stated in their report they felt certain conditions, including bin storage and noise insulation, could not be met.

Tory councillor Gwen Horrigan also raised concerns the residents would have a poor quality of life due to the quality and placement of the garden which would overlook the bin storage and car park.