CAMPAIGNERS are celebrating after councillors supported their call for the demolition of a disused primary school which has become an eyesore.

Dozens of residents from Easington Colliery clapped and cheered when a planning committee meeting at County Hall agreed today (Tuesday, September 8) to the demolition of Grade 11 listed building in Seaside Lane.

Members went against the recommendation of planning officers who said the buildings 1913 Grade II-listed building in Seaside Lane be preserved or redeveloped.

Historic England and the Victorian Society had argued the owners failed to provide adequate evidence, including any future development proposals, which would result in “the substantial public benefit required to justify the total loss of the designated heritage asset”.

Speaking on behalf of Easington Parish Council and about 1,800 residents who signed a petition calling for their demolition, Cllr Dr David Boyes said: “This is a momentous day in the history of Easington Colliery.

“The overriding feeling is that unless the school is demolished we simply cannot move forward as a community in regenerating an area desperately in need of regeneration."

Cllr Charlie Kay, who recommended approval said: "I believe the economic value to the village of Easington demolishing this far buildings far outweighs the benefit of the loss of an eyesore. them. It has been empty since 1997."

He added Historic England and the Victorian Society had objected but not offer any substance for their objections.

Cllr Geraldine Bleasdale said: "It has grown its own forest. It is unbelievable. People don’t deserve to be having to look at that every day. In my opinion it is dirty and disgusting. It has got to come down."

Businessman Tony Mann seeks to demolish the two tall girls’ and boy’s blocks along with ancillary buildings, sheds and walls.

The application excludes the Master’s House which is occupied by Age Concern. No plans have been submitted for the development of the site.

A planning bid submitted for the regeneration of the site was rejected after a public inquiry in 2007.

The proposals to demolish the former school will now go to the Secretary of State for a final decision.