CALLS are growing for Southend’s arson-hit Wimpy to be “brought back into use” as soon as possible due to its “prime seafront location”.

The restaurant, in Marine Parade, Southend, was destroyed in an arson attack back in January 2022, but has become an eyesore since with the burnt-out remains of the business sitting untouched.

Now, Wimpy bosses have admitted it is a disappointment that it has not re-opened yet, but claimed they’re powerless over its future due to the “franchisee” model the chain operates.

Southend councillors are now calling for some movement as it is a “prime seafront location” that is becoming an “eyesore”.

Matt Dent, Labour councillor responsible for the Kursaal ward, said: “The fact that so far on there is no development on the Wimpy site is a concern.

“It is a prime seafront location and obviously we want the seafront to be in its best state.

“Either Wimpy need to make good on their commitment to renovate and reopen, or they should make way for another business which can.”

Back in May 2022, Wimpy bosses remained hopeful the site would re-open but stated the matter was still in the hands of the insurance company.

However, now 18 months on from the fire, Wimpy still remains vacant with scaffolding surrounding the site.

At the time, Wimpy bosses were left “devastated” and “shocked” by the blaze.

Tony Cox, Conservative councillor, and leader of Southend Council added: “I want Wimpy to make a decision sooner rather than later on the site’s future. It is a key seafront location, and the more businesses that are open there, the more attractive and vibrant the place is.

“But equally I know the difficulties restaurant chains face these days. But hopefully we will see it back in use sooner rather than later now.”

A spokesman for Wimpy said: “We had very much hoped that by now there would have been positive progress around the rebuilding of Wimpy Marine Parade. Wimpy operates a franchise business model, which means both the Wimpy Marine Parade restaurant and the premises are owned by the franchisee.

“Wimpy is unable to influence any development decisions and therefore cannot comment further on future plans for the site.”