A derelict eyesore on Southend seafront could soon be the site of one of the area's most prestigious developments.
The old Grosvenor House Hotel in The Leas has stood empty for years and has been plagued by squatters and vandalism.
While it crumbles away, luxury developments, such as Admirals Court and Hamilton Grange, have shot up around it making the building look more and more out of place.
Mike Gray, group managing director of Dedman Property Services, said his firm was in contact with the owners to turn the building into a first class development.
He said: "After several years of this site being left vacant and boarded up, at long last architects and a specialist planning team are working very closely with the owners and an application for redevelopment is being drawn up.
"The plans will be submitted to Southend Council within a matter of weeks."
Mr Gray added the building, which could be developed early next year if all goes to plan, would greatly enhance the prime waterfront position and the building would offer top quality design and amenities.
David Garston, executive councillor for regeneration with Southend Council, was apprehensive about welcoming yet another modern block of flats at the expense of a character building.
Published Tuesday August 3, 2004
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