A NATIONAL chain could open a new nightclub in the empty first floor of Southend's famous Kursaal amusement centre.

The area under the Rendezvous Casino, originally earmarked for a banqueting suite, has stood unused since the building reopened in 1998.

Charles Allison, director of Kursaal owner Trehaven, is responsible for the landmark building's development.

He said: "It has been a long wait, but we are now looking at some movement in the revival of the Kursaal.

"We are negotiating with two companies to take over the bar/restaurant on the ground floor.

"Hopefully, these will be negotiated by the end of the year, followed by refitting and an opening by the beginning of next year's summer season.

"We are negotiating with a major national nightclub operator to take over the first floor, but at the moment I am not able to reveal any further details."

Trehaven has agreed a short-term lease for the space on the first floor of the bulding's famous dome.

Estuary Housing is taking the area on to accommodate the soon-to-be homeless Allsorts Playgroup.

Estuary manages the nearby Woodgrange Drive estate. The former community centre on the estate where Allsorts is currently based is being converted to a family centre.

The playgroup caters for 30 children between six months and five years old, with 15 adults looking after them.

Paul Durkin, Estuary's chief executive, said: "Without the help of Trehaven, the nursery would have closed, which would have affected the many local people who rely on it for childcare.

"It is great to see a large London-based company supporting a very young project and we are extremely grateful to it."