A fresh bid has been made to convert a run-down seafront fort.

The Beacon Hill site in Harwich has been the subject of speculation for several years, with a number of failed attempts to take it over.

Beaumont-based Iain Greenwood wants to lease the fort and make it a part of the East of England Tank Museum.

He has applied to Tendring Council for permission to rent the site, although several hurdles need to be overcome before the museum is opened.

"It is moving along slowly but it is happening," he said. "We are applying for charitable status as we need the money arrangements first."

Tendring Council has included the plan to lease Beacon Hill in its latest forward plan and is determining whether the land can be considered surplus to requirements.

Published Monday, January 24, 2005

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette