THE battle to redevelop a disused hotel is back on.

Sinclair Brown, who owns the Balmoral Hotel, in Valkyrie Road, Westcliff, wants permission to turn it into a block of 25 flats.

The plans are the fourth idea suggested for the building, which has been lying empty for two years.

A statement by ACS Design, which represents the hotel’s owner, Sinclair Brown, said the firm was hopeful it had now found an acceptable solution.

It said: “Planning permission is sought to find the best use for the property, which is currently vacant and, without an agreed use, will only deteriorate to the detriment of the whole area, particularly in view of the building’s prominent location in Valkyrie Road.”