THREE seafront cottages which have been targeted by vandals are to be demolished.The properties stand on Felixstowe's 17-acre south seafront and are being knocked down ready for a start on the £25 million plus regeneration project on the site.

THREE seafront cottages which have been targeted by vandals are to be demolished.

The properties stand on Felixstowe's 17-acre south seafront and are being knocked down ready for a start on the £25 million plus regeneration project on the site.

Demolition experts are due to start bulldozing the council-owned empty cottages off Langer Road today and the work should take four weeks.

Council officers say every effort will be made to keep any disruption down to a minimum.

Suffolk coastal cabinet member Robert Whiting said: “The multi-million pound regeneration plans for the south seafront site would result in a maritime park, other leisure facilities, and car parking being built, funded by 158 new homes.

“While we wait for the work to start, it is sensible at this time to try and avoid further expense and protect the public at the same time.

“Because of previous damage, these properties are a potential danger to the public in the event of illegal entry.

“Demolishing these properties now will not only be a step forward in readying the site for redevelopment, but it will also prevent them becoming more of an eyesore and magnet for vandals.”

Now that the go-ahead has been given for the £10m sea defences to protect the southern part of the resort, including the south seafront site, the regeneration project can get under way.

The plans offer a much-needed injection of leisure facilities and other services for residents and visitors alike - including play equipment, a refreshment kiosk, and new modern toilets, plus 262 additional car-parking spaces.