CALLS are being made for a half demolished seafront office block to be pulled down once and for all.

Martin Terry, leader of the independent group on Southend Council, has labelled Esplanade House, on Eastern Esplanade, Southend, a health hazard and embarrassing eyesore.

He pointed out it is half-demolished, yet graffiti has somehow been sprayed on the upper floor, which suggests youngsters have been risking life and limb to climb up there.

Mr Terry believes the building should be completely demolished before anyone is seriously hurt and will raise the issue with the council this week.

He said: “Half of the building has been pulled down while the rest is still standing and it now looks like an absolute eyesore.

“There is graffiti on some of the upper floors, which means the building is still accessible.

“I am worried about the health and safety issues, because people are obviously getting inside the building and there could be a serious injury.

“We demolished the corporation loading pier because of health and safety concerns, as we knew the council could be liable, yet we are allowing this situation to continue.”

Esplanade House is owned by the Robert Leonard Group, based in Aviation Way, Southend.

Managing director Perry Gamon said: “The site has been secured and it is not a health risk.

“Unfortunately, people will get into empty buildings if they want to, no matter how many safety precautions you put in place.

“We anticipate putting in a new planning application for the site shortly.”

Plans to build 220 flats, a 64 bedroom budget hotel, restaurant and shops on the site were deferred by the council in September