A POPULAR social club's future is shrouded in doubt after plans for its sale were announced.

Members and nearby residents fear that the Shell Club in Springhouse Road, Corringham could be levelled to make way for residential developments after bosses confirmed it was going up for sale.

In a letter sent to members in March, club chairman, Derek Bland, said: "The Directors have recommended to the shareholder, Shell UK Limited that they should consider options for the disposal of the Club."

The Shell Club opened in March 1950 to provide social and recreational facilities to the employees of Shell Haven Refinery. Although the Shell Haven Refinery closed seven years ago the club has played an important role in the community and continues to thrive.

The letter also stated that the Club needs on-going investment on a significant scale if it is to continue to satisfy the requirements of its existing members and to attract new ones.

Despite the club's uncertain future Directors have refurbished the Main Hall, which is a popular venue for functions, and are also set to make improvements to the bar.

However Mr Bland confirmed that this kind of investment will not continue.

He said: "Shell cannot continue to invest in this way given that the main reason for its involvement ceased some years ago and that the sport and recreational business is not one that Shell normally participates in."

Although it is intended for the club to be sold as a going concern to operate as a sports and social venue for the neighbouring communities bosses can offer no commitment regarding future operations as this will be dependent on the future purchaser.

A concerned resident, who lives near to the club and asked not to be named, said: "It would be a shame to see it go because it's a part of Corringham.

"I certainly wouldn't like to see flats or houses built on it."

A spokeswoman for Shell UK, said: "Shell have not entered into any negotiations about the sale of the club yet. However, it is intended to be sold as a going concern.

"Shell will comply with employment obligations."

The spokeswoman refused to comment on whether the land could be sold off to make way for development.

The Directors will attend the forthcoming members' AGM on April 25 to discuss the club's future.