PLANS to transform a boat-builder's site into tea rooms are expected to be submitted this week.

Businessman John Cross, who owns the Seaking boat builders in Leigh Old Town, said he will submit plans this week and expects them to be well-received by the council. He said: "Al-though I know there will be some resistance from some councillors, I'm reasonably sure the majority of the council will see sense."

If his proposals go ahead, the site would be transformed, serving tea, scones and smoked salmon sandwiches.

However, Don Ladell, who owns AH Yachts on Canvey, had hoped to take over the site and preserve it for classic wooden boat-building.

Mr Cross, who also owns the Boatyard restaurant next door, said: "I have had other people approach me, but no one's come up with any money.

"It's not for sale anyway, but no one's tried to persuade me to change my mind by getting their chequebook out."

Mr Ladell, 24, said he had been in talks with Mr Cross to keep the site for marine use.

He said: "But when I discussed it he made it sound as if it was more beneficial for him to find another property rather than accept a sum from me."