New pictures showing the disrepair in a historic Dovercourt building have been released as part of plans to convert the former Co-op into a pub and hotel.l

East Anglian Daily Times: Interior of the former Co-op building in Kingsway, Dovercourt, owned by WetherspoonsInterior of the former Co-op building in Kingsway, Dovercourt, owned by Wetherspoons (Image: Archant)

Pub giants JD Wetherspoon bought the site in Kingsway last September as it revealed £1.3million investment proposals bringing 50 jobs to the town.

A planning application has now been submitted to Tendring District Council for the pub use, along with nine hotel rooms.

As part of the proposals Wetherspoon has provided images showing the disrepair inside the building.

A number of local residents have backed the scheme, saying it bring back to life an eyesore building, though some have raised concerns about noise, odours and light pollution.

Wetherspoon has a tradition of restoring historic features of buildings.

The application states: “It is to be regretted so many of the building’s original features have been allowed to deteriorate. Consideration will be given to the principle of restoring some of these features in the entirety of the proposals.

“The applicant will invest a considerable sum in the acquisition, repair, refurbishment, and refitting of the building.

“Re-opening the premises as a J D Wetherspoon would ultimately benefit the local economy, bringing back into economic use a prominent local building.”

Eddie Gershon, Wetherspoon spokesman, said: “We are as keen as ever to open a pub a pub in Dovercourt.

“We believe a Wetherspoon pub and hotel will be a great benefit to the town and also act as a catalyst for other businesses to invest in Harwich itself.

“We are pleased that planning is now in and will await the outcome.”

Tendring District Council is due to rule on the plans by March 29.