The latest phase in transforming the centre of Southend into a thriving university campus has been given the go-ahead.

Essex University's plan to create a six-storey building on the site of the old Odeon cinema in Southend High Street received the approval of Southend councillors at a meeting of the development control committee.

The demolition of the historic Odeon building is almost complete.

Its replacement will feature numerous teaching areas, a business innovation centre, medical training centre and retail space.

Although planning permission was not granted last night, councillors showed their support by voting in favour of the scheme and agreeing to delegate the final decision to council planning officers.