Skegness Grand Parade fire site could be bought by council

A large part of the Grand Parade was destroyed in the fire in 2007

A Lincolnshire council is considering taking control of part of a holiday resort which has been derelict since a fire four years ago.

A large part of Skegness's seafront Grand Parade was destroyed in the blaze in August 2007.

East Lindsey District Council said it was "actively considering compulsory purchase powers" to bring the seafront back into use.

Planning permission for redevelopment was granted last year.

New jobs

The development approved was for a four-storey leisure complex, with ice rink, food hall and bars.

Half the site has been redeveloped, but another part remains empty.

Portfolio holder for planning and economic development, Councillor Craig Leyland, said: "This ongoing saga needs a conclusion for the benefit of Skegness.

"We granted planning permission for the vacant site to be redeveloped and if work doesn't begin we will consider compulsory purchase order proceedings.

"As the site stands currently, it is no use to anyone. We need new businesses and jobs in Skegness and this site can help deliver that."