A LANDMARK former cinema could be knocked down to make way for new shops and flats, it has been revealed.

The former Palace cinema, in Ness Road, Shoebury, had been used by Essex-based firm Camping and General until early this year.

The building has now been bought by a company, represented by Bateman Property Agents, which intends to build flats.

Bateman director Michael Osher said: "My client has aspirations to redevelop the site.

"This will likely include retail on the ground floor and some flats above."

Mr Osher did not rule out the possibility of demolition work on the building. He added: "It has been acquired by an individual speculator, that is all I am prepared to say.

"We are not aware there is any particular protection on retaining any part of the existing building."

Mr Osher would not reveal the name of the buyer.

The building opened at the beginning of the 20th century as a cinema and closed in the 1960s.

Camping and General, which has shops on the A127 in Leigh and Canvey, used the old cinema building until just after Christmas.

Manager Steve Thorne said: "The area itself was not the busiest, but we got an offer at the right time."

No planning applications for the building have yet been submitted to Southend Council.

The Shoebury Society said the building was well-known in the area, but it would be not be a huge loss if it was bulldozed.

West Shoebury councillor Liz Day said the closure of the camping shop was disappointing.

She said: "I used to be a customer at the camping shop.

"I have not heard of any plans for the building. If a local shop closes I would like to know the reason."