REPAIRS to a derelict grotspot torn apart by fire have been hailed as excellent news by campaigners who have spent two years fighting for action.

Last week The Standard reported that a project has been launched to redevelop 20 Market Street in Harwich.

The top floor was gutted by a blaze in 2012, which saw it fall into disrepair.

Residents complained about the look of the building and its safety, even holding anniversary parties outside to protest about the "grotspot".

But an insurance claim has now been settled and the owner is preparing plans for restoration work.

A structural engineer and an architect have both been appointed to the project.

Harwich Town Councillor David Flavell praised Tendring Council and the planning boss Carlo Guglielmi for the work done to get work off the ground.

β€œIt is excellent news and I would like to thank Carlo for all he has done behind the scenes,” he said.

β€œI am sure there will now be a consultation with the town council over the best course of action but it may be too early to say what that may be."