A new community hub could be set up in Harwich if plans from Community Voluntary Services Tendring (CVST) get the go-ahead.

The organisation hopes to convert a former furniture warehouse and auctioneers into the centre providing a range of services for vulnerable people.

CVST has submitted a planning application to Tendring District Council for change of use of the building, in Dovercourt High Street.

If permission is given – and the sale goes through – a refurbishment of the building will then be carried out, with the help of a grant from Colchester Catalyst, and the organisation then hopes to start using the hub in the summer of 2017.

The community information hub for wellbeing will offer services such as health checks, stop smoking support, ‘IT for the terrified’ and CVST’s bereavement and friendship cafe.

Sharon Alexander, chief officer of CVST, said: “We have always been aware that though we provide a base in Clacton and do outreach to all parts of the district, it is becoming increasingly obvious we need to have a base in the Harwich and Dovercourt area.

“We’ve been looking at several properties, and being on the High Street makes it easily accessible.

“As well as an information hub, it will also be a meeting point for all of our activity groups.

“Our vision is to work in collaboration with partners.

“There’s an awful lot to do and steps to go through but it is very exciting. We are very grateful to Colchester Catalyst for its support.”

The building was most recently used as an estate agents, closing in July.