NEW plans for the revamp of one of Leigh’s most iconic buildings are being kept tightly under wraps.

Mick Norcross, property developer, nightclub owner and former star of reality TV show TOWIE, is currently reworking plans to return the Grand to its former glory.

He has planning permission to turn the building into a boutique hotel with luxury spa, but now he has obtained the freehold to the old building, has said that the plan is not viable.

The building has lain empty for a number of years and attempts to develop the property have been hampered by subsidence, the invasive and potentially destructive Japanese knotweed, as well as protracted discussions between Mr Norcross and the former freeholder every time he wanted to make an alteration.

The Echo reported earlier this month that Mr Norcross has now bought the freehold and the knotweed problem is under control, allowing him to press ahead with plans to refurbish the building.

He has previously reassured the people of Leigh that they will still be able to eat and drink in the Grand, as they did in its previous guise a pub, but appears to feel a hotel is no longer a viable option for the building.

He is currently in talks with Southend Council about the new proposals.

He tweeted: “Good morning, we are currently working up a new and viable plan with guidance from Southend Borough Council following a pre app[lication] meeting.”

And last week he tweeted: “Very challenging meeting today with Southend borough council planning department #contemporary??? #Idontthinkso”