MOVES are underway to compulsory purchase the site of the former Granville Marina restaurant after a vote by Thanet councillors.

The Grade II listed building on Ramsgate seafront was demolished in Feburary last year after falling into a state of desrepair.

Owners Au Clair Properties have twice had its plans for the site refused by the district’s planning committee on grounds that they were not true to the original facade, which featured turrets and other unusual features.

On Wednesday Thanet council’s planning committee voted to start legal action to compulsory purchase the site.

A number of factors could delay action however including any appeal against refusal of the company’s previous plans or objection to the compulsory purchase.

Planning committee chairman Ken Gregory said after the meeting: “I think this is an important site in most people’s eyes because it was an iconic building and one which people have taken to their hearts because it is quirky.”