THE Royals in Southend has been taken over by the company behind the plush Roslin Beach Hotel, in a major deal that could see homes added to the high street shopping centre.

The Regis Group – a real estate investor based in Warrior Square – has officially struck a deal to take over the site, with bosses aiming to “ensure the success and longevity of the shopping centre”.

When the shopping centre was initially put on the market in May 2021, the potential to build flats on the former Debenhams store was touted by estate agents Savills.

Savills was working on behalf of Cromwell Property Group to sell The Royals Shopping Centre, which was initially on the market for £13.42million.

It is unclear how much the final sale was completed for, but it is believed to be a multi-million pound deal.

Councillors and residents now believe the developer will convert some of the centre into new homes.

Martin Terry, Independent deputy leader of Southend Council said: “It’s a fantastic site and is overlooking the seafront. I can see a multi-use centre there and knowing the company it may look to have some homes there.

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“I can see some retail and leisure, there are some empty shops there and I do not imagine loads of homes at the centre.

“It could be penthouse style housing on the top and I am glad it’s gone to a secure firm which some resource so we know something will happen.

“It’s a brilliant site and probably has the best views in the city.”

The purchase of the shopping centre comes two years after Southend Council bought the Victoria Shopping Centre for £10million.

Carole Mulroney, Lib Dem councillor for environment, culture and tourism said: “I think we should see a mixture of retail and leisure and we may see some homes built there and this would help make the high street more vibrant. I look forward to seeing what they are planning and hope it’s something with longevity and long term.”

Colin Nickless, 47, of Plas Newydd, Southend said: “I think lots of housing there is probably a viable option for the centre, and I think we will see more of this in town centres and shopping centres. With the trends for shopping centres and high streets I think housing is inevitable there.”

A Regis Group spokesman confirmed the purchase of the shopping centre and stated it “plans to consult with all relevant stakeholders” on future plans.