Work is now underway to demolish the Milton Road Car Park in Dovercourt Town Centre marking a major milestone in Tendring District Council’s (TDC) £9million regeneration of the area.

Contractors SRC Group have begun work to dismantle the structure which has been out of use since September 2023 when the nearby Orwell Place car park was opened.

Eventually, the site will be used for a more modern 23-space parking facility which will include two accessible bays, cycle parking and attractive landscaping as well electric vehicle charging facilities.

Decorative railings inspired by Dovercourt’s iconic Leading Lights—designed in collaboration with local heritage groups—will add a distinctive touch to the area, once the replacement car park is constructed.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, welcomed the start of works.

“This is a significant moment for Dovercourt,” he said.

“Seeing demolition begin shows our commitment to revitalising the town centre.

“This redevelopment will not only improve the town’s appearance but also support local businesses—especially on market days and during events.”

The project forms part of a wider £9million investment in the town centre. This includes £6.7million in government funding, with additional contributions from TDC and Essex County Council.

Two derelict sites in Victoria Street are set to be redeveloped to create eight new council homes over the coming months.

There will also be significant investment in the town centre public realm and local businesses have been able to apply for grants to improve their shopfronts.

Demolition of the Milton Road Car Park is expected to continue over the coming weeks, paving the way for construction to begin in the next few months.

For more information about the project, visit https://www.tendringdc.gov.uk/lu/lu-in-tendring

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