The derelict Pleasurama site on Ramsgate seafront is set for development after more than a decade of delays.

The face of the Royal Sands is set to change with a hotel, apartments, leisure facilities, cafes, shops and a playground after contracts were exchanged with Cardy Construction on Friday.

Cardy Construction have taken over control of the site from SFP Ventures UK and expect to employ up to 200 local tradesmen to complete the work.

The contractors have also confirmed a project specific apprenticeship training scheme.

The agreement will see a 60-bed hotel and 107 residential apartments in what Thanet District Council hopes to be a key regeneration project and support economic activity.

Councillors voted in favour of Cardy in September after SFP Ventures UK had secured planning permission in 2004 but their scheme failed to materialise.

Cabinet member for financial services and estates Cllr Rick Everitt said: “I am delighted that we have been able to reach agreement with Cardy and bring this long-running saga to an end.

“This is a sensible solution for all parties, but most importantly of all this will bring about the regeneration of Ramsgate seafront and the town more generally.

“The council has had to work within the constraints of existing legal agreements entered into many years ago and I know there are different views about the scheme.

“But I believe the biggest issue for most residents has been the lack of progress – now at last we can move forward.”

Cardy’s managing director Michael Stannard said: “We’re delighted to be given the opportunity to develop this exciting and prestigious project.

“As a lifetime resident of Ramsgate I am aware this development will be key to the regeneration of the town and as a company we are proud to be associated with such an iconic and important site.”

For more information about the scheme email estates@thanet.gov.uk.