Castle Point Council is to spend £250,000 finding out what Canvey needs - but the money is coming from the Government.

Council leader Pam Challis said Canvey was under a Government spotlight because it was considered to be of major importance in the Thames Gateway.

Mrs Challis said a report prepared by consultants Halcrow for the south-west Canvey regeneration zone was due to be considered by the central service and the planning committee.

She added: "In the meantime, I have secured £250,000 from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister through Thames Gateway to fund consultants to undertake a major consultation exercise with the local community in identifying a way forward.

"This is the next phase and, as I have announced before, this is a project which has exciting prospects for Canvey."

Mrs Challis said that during the consultation period the people of Canvey will be given every opportunity to be involved and have their say through public meetings, public displays and workshops.