An outdated and “unloved” town centre car park will be demolished as part of a £9million revamp of Dovercourt town centre.

Tendring District Council's (TDC) Planning Committee has given the go-ahead for the transformation of the dated Milton Road Car Park at a meeting on Tuesday, February 4.

The approved project will breathe new life into the site of the old car park structure, which has reached the end of its lifespan.

It will be replaced with a modern car park, featuring 23 parking spaces, two accessible parking bays, cycle parking and landscaping.

Adding a unique touch, decorative railings inspired by the town’s cherished Leading Lights and designed in collaboration with local heritage groups will enhance the area’s charm.

The community showed strong support for the plans at a public event hosted at Commu-nity Voluntary Services Tendring’s (CVST) Harwich and Dovercourt Hub last year and the planning application for the scheme has now been approved.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said he was delighted the plans have been given the green light.

“I’m absolutely thrilled that these plans have been approved,” he said.

“This project will inject new energy into an unloved area of our town centre.

“With the old car park closed since the opening of the Orwell Place Car Park and events space last year, this redevelopment will not only enhance the town’s appearance but also be a boost for local trade.

“The renewed car park will be a game-changer, especially on market days and to support events, currently run at Orwell Place throughout the year.

“This significant investment will attract more visitors and shoppers, fostering a renewed sense of pride among our residents.”

This initiative is part of a broader £9million investment in Dovercourt town centre, pow-ered by £6.7million in government funding and additional contributions from TDC and Es-sex County Council.

The comprehensive scheme includes vibrant road and public realm enhancements from Dovercourt railway station to Kingsway, as well as the refurbishment of the town’s library to incorporate Adult Community Learning, led by Essex County Council.

TDC is also spearheading the regeneration of two derelict sites on Victoria Street, with exciting plans to build eight new council homes. These housing plans are part of a sepa-rate planning application.

It is expected that demolition work at the car park will start this summer.

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