A HOTEL’S proposed expansion is another sign of Canvey challenging Southend as the number one seaside destination in South Essex, it has been claimed.

The Oysterfleet Hotel, on Knightswick Road, Canvey, has submitted plans to build an additional 20 rooms at the rear of the site, in the form of a three storey annexe.

In 2015, the hotel had plans approved to convert roof space to create an extra seven rooms, adding to the existing 41, but the plans were never implemented.

Now, the plans to add 20 rooms have been hailed as hugely positive.

Canvey recorded a hugely successful summer last year, with long-standing councillor, Ray Howard, insisting it was challenging Southend for popularity during the warmer months.

And he believes that the hotel’s proposed expansion is another example of the island flourishing.

He said: “It is another sign of Canvey truly prospering.

“I actually had the pleasure of opening the Oysterfleet Hotel many years ago and it has served the Canvey community and those visiting us fantastically well since.

“Staff do a fantastic job and everyone is always full of praise for the hotel, while they provide a service to the community regularly hosting the Rotary Club and much more.

“It is a great asset and I am very pleased to hear they are planning to expand.

“Whenever there is a major event anywhere in South Essex, the Oysterfleet is a number one destination, and they regularly have to turn people away because they are full.

“We said all summer that Canvey is challenging Southend to become the top destination throughout the warmer months, and that is exactly what is happening.”

The hotel was initially opened in 1995, after the Oysterfleet County Club was demolished, which had stood in place since at least 1967.

Prior to the hotel plans being put in place, the country club was home to Chris Fenwick’s Dr Feelgood, and between 1993 and 1994 it was known as the Dr Feelgood Music Bar.

If planning permission is approved, the previously approved permission for seven rooms in the roof will not be implemented.

The hotel is based at the heart of Canvey’s town centre overlooking the lake.

Independently owned and family run, the hotel also offers a bar, restaurant, and function suite.

The plans were submitted to Castle Point Council on January 9, and validated on January 11.

Castle Point Council officers will now assess the plans, as well as any public comments, for or against, before making a recommendation to the planning committee - who will vote on the plans during a development control committee.

To comment on the plans search 19/0025/FUL on Castle Point’s planning portal.