Plans for a new creative and cultural venue on Clacton seafront have moved a step closer after planning permission was granted to transform three council-owned buildings.

Tendring District Council’s (TDC) Planning Committee has approved plans to revamp the family of buildings next to the Martello Lounge on the Kings Promenade.

The overhaul will improve the appearance of the buildings and make them suitable for a future tenant in the creative and cultural sector.

The plans allow for the buildings to be used in various ways, so different types of businesses in that field can express their interest in eventually taking over the site.

The disused public conveniences, curved shelter and storage sit directly above the council’s Beach Patrol headquarters which will also be refurbished as part of the project and continue to be used throughout this summer season and beyond.

Jessica Bryan, TDC’s Culture and Visitor Service Manager, said: “This is a real milestone for this project, and I am grateful to the Planning Committee for their support of this scheme.

“Their approval means we can now progress plans to unlock the potential of this site, bringing it back into use in a way that complements the existing private investment along the seafront.”

The refurbishment is likely to begin after the busy summer season, and TDC will look to begin a tender process to find an appropriate tenant during the build phase. Although the buildings are council owned, TDC still had to apply for planning permission in the same way as any other applicant.

The public conveniences in the scheme were moved to nearby Pier Gap after a review of the council’s provisions in 2017.

Residents can still share their views or express an interest in being part of this Government-funded project, via https://www.tendringdc.gov.uk/government-funded-projects/seafront-micro-venue

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