AN eyesore building is set to be pulled down to make way for a new development after a compulsory purchase order was requested by the local council.

Members of Hartlepool Council’s finance and policy committee sanctioned the move after hearing that all efforts to purchase the derelict Longscar Building at Seaton Carew site by agreement have so far failed.

The building occupies a prominent position on The Front overlooking the sea and its demolition is a key element of the Seaton Carew Masterplan, a blueprint for the regeneration of the popular seaside resort.

Damien Wilson, the council’s assistant director (Regeneration), said: “Given the Longscar Building’s adverse impact upon the sea front and commercial area of Seaton Carew, action is required to acquire the property so that it can be included within the regeneration proposals.

“The inclusion of the building is considered paramount to the success of any regeneration scheme and its clearance will represent a step change in the appearance, amenity and vitality of The Front.”

It is proposed to bring forward the regeneration proposals for The Front in three phases, with the clearance of the Longscar Building site forming part of the first phase.