Demolition of old town centre car park completed

Labour councillor Ivan Henderson (centre) said demolishing the old Milton Road car park would help to create a "modern and vibrant town centre"

Demolition of a former town centre car park described by a council as an "eyesore" has been completed.

The old Milton Road facility in Dovercourt, Essex, was ripped down as part of a £9m regeneration of the town.

It would be replaced by a modern 23-space car park in 2026, Tendring District Council said.

Deputy leader Ivan Henderson said: "This is a major part of our plan to create a modern and vibrant town centre."

The new car park will have charging facilities for electric vehicles and decorative railings inspired by Dovercourt's Victorian lighthouses.

"I know residents, visitors and businesses have been keen to see action on this site," added Henderson, a Labour councillor.

"With demolition complete, the focus can now turn to building a new car park which will be a huge benefit to everyone."

A 23-space car park will replace the old facility in Milton Road

The government pledged £6.7m of funding towards the town's £9m redevelopment, with contributions also made by Tendring District Council and Essex County Council.

Harwich Library has been refurbished as part of the wider works and High Street businesses have received cash to improve their shopfronts.

Future plans included building social housing on disused land in Victoria Street and creating new green spaces.