An abandoned holiday camp could be redeveloped into a “holiday destination” as bosses discuss the site’s future.

The Pontins camp next to Camber Sands, just over the Kent border, has sat empty ever since owners Britannia Hotels shut it with “immediate effect” last November.

The closure has had a huge impact on the village with residents saying it has had a knock-on effect on employment, businesses and footfall.

On Tuesday, leaders at Rother District Council and Hastings and Rye MP Helena Dollimore (Lab) met with Britannia Hotels to discuss the camp's future.

Cllr Christine Bayliss, deputy leader and cabinet member for economic development and regeneration, said she was “heartened” by the talks.

“The closure of the holiday park last year came as a shock to everyone, including Rother District Council which owns the freehold of the site, and we have been determined to get answers about its future,” she said.

“I was pleased to have the opportunity to speak directly to Britannia Hotels this week.

“During discussions, Britannia Hotels confirmed its intention to redevelop the site as a holiday destination and I was heartened by its promise to work with local partners, including the district council.

“Pontins is a key destination, and we recognise its importance in the local economy of Camber.

“We look forward to working with Britannia Hotels to ensure that Camber Sands continues to be one of the most popular holiday destinations for the region.”

All the entrances to the site have been fenced off and the only signs of life that remain are the security lights that are left on 24 hours a day.

The holiday park, which has a capacity of 3,000 guests, also had a small Nisa Local shop on site which recently closed in September.

Britannia Hotels also closed Pontins in Prestatyn in Wales at the same time as the site in Camber Sands.

However, last month the company confirmed redevelopment plans were underway for the site in Wales with the aim of re-opening the holiday park as soon as possible.