A CONVENT which is almost a century old is now likely to be demolished and replaced with homes after plans gained the support of council officers.

Trustees of the Institute of Our Lady of Mercy initially submitted plans in 2017, but now, ahead of next Tuesday’s development control committee meeting, they have been recommended for approval.

The proposals would see the convent - dating back to the 1920s - demolished and 32 homes built in its place.

Planning officers at Castle Point Council recommended the plans for approval, largely because the site currently has no use, and they do not expect to see a new use come forward.

But a number of concerns had been raised by residents who urged the site to be protected for its history in the area.

The recommendation read: “The proposal represents the redevelopment of previously developed land within the urban area.

“Whilst allocated for school and worship purposes, the land within the confines of the application site no longer fulfils either of these functions and is unlikely to be put to such use in the future.

“Government guidance is clear that where opportunities exist to provide housing on sustainable sites which are allocated for development purposes, planning permission should not be unreasonably withheld.

“Detailed consideration has been given to the proposal and the comments received, particularly from local residents however, for the reasons set out in the forgoing report, the principle of residential development is considered appropriate on this site.”

If approved, a new estate would be created on the site, with a mix of house sizes, backing on to St Joseph’s School, in Lionel Road.

The convent on Canvey was originally set up in the 1920s by Anglican Nuns after the war, during which it was requisitioned by the war department.

After the First World War, the Sisters of Mercy came to the island and took over the old convent.

They set up a school on the site, and dedicated it to St Joseph.

The convent, as we know it today, was built in 1971.

Walsingham House is a large two-storey structure in the centre of the plot, surrounded by gardens.

The initial application read: “As a previously developed site located very close to the centre of the town, the proposal will represent a very sustainable form of development.

“It will make a valuable contribution to housing supply.”

The planning committee will now vote on the plans next Tuesday.