SOUTHEND Council is weighing up a funding bid to reopen an iconic 120-year-old seafront landmark.

The Kursaal, one of the world's first purpose-built amusement parks, opened in 1901, but has fallen empty after the casino closed over two years ago.

But town bosses believe it could be transformed into a multi-use community centre, with an indoor market, soft play area and more.

Last year, Southend Council revealed it had opened discussions with the current leaseholders of the Grade II listed building, AEW UK, to buy back the lease.

With bidding for the second round of government Levelling Up funding expected to open imminently, the council says it is considering applying for the money to reopen the famous landmark.

Council leader Ian Gilbert said: “We are very keen to explore the possibility that we might be able to use some levelling up funding to bring The Kursaal back into use.

“That is one of the projects we would consider bidding for money on. It’s a potential option. I wouldn’t want to say it’s something we are definitely going to do, as we are working up a range of options for round two of the Levelling Up fund.”

Southend Council secured £20 million of the first round of Levelling Up money to renovate the Cliffs Pavilion as part of an £87 million Government cash injection into five coastal attractions across the East of England.

The new bid would involve working with arts co-operative Concrete Culture, backed by Get Cape Wear Cape Fly musician Sam Duckworth.

“The council is working closely with Concrete Culture to see if it’s plan is a viable option,” Mr Gilbert added.

“However, what we can’t do is give a blank cheque to the current owners. We have to approach this in a way that will represent value for money for the taxpayer.”

AEW have at least 200 years left their leasehold contract with no break clause, according to councillor Matt Dent.

“This isn’t the place we want to be starting negotiations, but we have to deal with it. We’re not getting the value from the leaseholder,” he told the Echo.