AN empty seafront pub has been bulldozed.

Contractors have knocked down the New Ship, in Marine Parade, Southend.

The Inner London Group plans to build a 14-storey tower block on the site between Southchurch Avenue and Pleasant Road. It is expected to submit plans in July.

The proposed development includes 350 flats, shops, restaurants and offices.

However, Kursaal ward councillor Blaine Robin is concerned permission wasn’t in place to demolish the pub.

He said: “When something like this happens, before anything is approved, people start to worry things may be out of control. I will be asking for issues like this to be better policed. Any residents with concerns can contact me.”

A council spokesman explained there has been a subtle change in the law.

He explained: “Before, you only needed council permission to demolish housing or any other building with some protection, for example a listed building.

“Now you need permission for anything and have to show the demolition will have no adverse effect on the environment and the method of demolition is safe.

“So, whoever knocked down the New Ship pub did not have council permission. But it is very unlikely the council would have refused permission.”

Last summer, the Echo revealed about half the site, the old Funland arcade, the car park behind, Ye Olde Chippy, and the New Ship, had been bought by property consortium Goldfield Developments for £2.25million.

The Inner London Group has not replied to the Echo.