FAMILIES could benefit from a new state-of-the-art children’s soft play area, Brentwood Borough Council has revealed.

Council planners are currently debating one of their most recent applications, which intends to turn a disused space in Weald Road, into a themed play centre for pre-schoolers.

The location, 2 Weald Road, previously a printers, has been empty for the past year.

In a full planning statement, landlady Kerry Farmer said the proposal for the 100m sq play centre will bring numerous benefits to the town including jobs.

She said: “The primary function of the facility will be as a meeting place for parents and young children providing a soft play activity function for children and a food and beverages offer attractive to parents and young children, primarily of pre-school age.

“This will provide a relevant meeting place for local parents, particularly young mums and will provide a small soft play system for the use of children of patrons of the facility.”

She added the indoor playground, which will be funded by herself and her tenant, will be designed by industry experts, therefore promising the most stringent safety measures.

She continued: “There will be a requirement for both full and part-time staff at both the managerial and ancillary level. The play centre will be open seven days per week and will operate within the statutorily authorised opening hours.”

If Brentwood Borough councillors decide to give the plans the green-light, it is understood six full-time jobs and two part-time jobs will be created. Qualified staff will man the centre on Monday to Friday from 9am-6pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10am-6pm, when it will be open.

Tory councillor Keith Parker, the chair of community, health and leisure committee, said if done professionally, the play - ground could bring benefits to Brentwood.

But the application gave no mention of parking arrangements, which could pose problems according to Mr Parker.

He explained: “If it benefits children and mums, and gives families an extra option in the town, I’m all for that.

“Anything that means children’s heads aren’t stuck in an iPad and they are staying active is a good thing. My only concern is where people will park their cars – it’s extremely busy in that area."