NEARLY �1million is to be spent by North Somerset Council to purchase a nightclub.

NEARLY �1million is to be spent by North Somerset Council to purchase a nightclub.

Senior executive councillors have agreed to buy the Sands nightclub in Weston for �930,000 so they can knock it down as part of a town centre regeneration project.

But councillors admit they are unsure what to do with the premises until it is demolished for project building work.

The property is expected to cost the council �3,500 in insurances premium, empty property business rates, security and utilities every month.

Executive member for property, Tony Lake, said: "We made an offer because this property forms part of the Dolphin Square redevelopment and is not in possession of North Somerset Council.

"Taking advantage of the situation now means we will avoid an expensive and un-timely compulsory purchase.

"What we will do after purchasing the freehold interest is not something we are discussing at the moment.

"The first thing we need to do is purchase the property then we will look at the long-term future of it."

Money for the purchase would come from grants secured for the redevelopment from the West of England Partnership.

The Dolphin Square redevelopment project will involve knocking down the shopping precinct and NCP car park to make way for modern shops, a new central library and council offices.

The plans include demolishing The Sands for a modern, landmark building.