A HERITAGE centre at Shoebury garrison is set to take off... thanks to a £200,000 cash injection.

Southend Council has earmarked the money to develop the Battery Gun Store, in Warrior Square Road, into a heritage centre.

The Grade II-listed building is currently in a poor state of repair as it has been left unused for many years.

But now a museum and archive area will be available for those interested in seeing the Shoebury history.

This will include the garrison’s military history.

Roger Hadley, Shoebury ward councillor, said: “The council is giving the heritage centre £200,000 to kick start it and get the café and toilets open.

“Another £675,000 to develop it into a heritage centre.”

He added: “Things are really beginning to move now.

The centre will also have information about Gunners Park, including volunteering opportunities and guides for walking and cycling, which will allow visitors to enjoy walks in the surrounding wildlife area and park.

There will also be educational facilities for researchers and local schools to learn more about the area and its history.

A café will also provide walkers with a place to relax and enjoy the views towards the estuary.