AN iconic building in Shoebury is set to become a bistro and wine bar after sitting empty for eight years – and it will be run by a resident living on the Garrison estate.

Details are being finalised for the transformation of the Grade II listed Shoeburyness Hotel in High Street.

Nick Kenney, director of architects the Draughtsman, based in Ness Road, bought the pub last year from developers Hollybrook.

He said Costcutters were keen to move into the building, which has been empty since a fire in 2004, but he felt the offer was wrong for the area.

The idea wasn’t well-received by residents on the neighbouring Garrison estate either, one of whom has now come forward to lead the bistro project.

He said: “I had quite a lot of objections from Garrison residents when they heard a shop could go there, saying they would prefer a restaurant or bar.

“I agree with them. Then it was just a case of finding someone willing to look at setting up a restaurant as I have no experience of running them.

“Someone living on the Garrison, who wants to remain anonymous, has now come forward. This is really good as there obviously is demand for a venue like this.”

Mr Kenney, 37, who has lived in Shoebury since 1999, said he was “ecstatic” about the possibility of a bistro.

He said: “This building is well known in the area.

“I think the bistro will be a good thing for everyone on the Garrison and we have also got what we wanted for the building.

“Being a local lad, I knew how much love there was for the hotel around here.

“I think if it had been an out of town developer who had control, they would have just accepted the shop bid straight away without a doubt.”

There are also five luxury apartments in the building which are for rent.