Residents have called for an "eyesore" seafront building to be demolished.

People from the St Leonards community have shown dislike towards the venue, which previously housed the Azur restaurant in Marina Pavilion, St Leonards.

The restaurant closed down in January after more than a decade and the owners of the site, Sea Change Sussex, are now looking for a new business to take over the space.

READ MORE: Restaurant 'stunned' after being named best of the year

However, a number of residents believe that the building should now be demolished rather than reopened under something new.

Vanessa Boon Wynn wrote on Facebook: "It just ruins the view and promenade."

Another resident, Christian Clark, added: "It has certainly become dilapidated but I thought it was rather fun when it was first built. With some money spent it could be a restaurant with fantastic views."

Debbie Wilde said: "I have missed being able to walk that bit of the prom, I agree it is an eyesore."

One person also said that the venue is "not a thing of beauty".

However, while some people believe the venue should just be knocked down, others believe that the site does have potential if used in the right one.

Conrad Howard said: "It’s quite a great design, but lacking in detail and therefore sadly looks sad."

Another resident said that the building should be demolished and then replaced with a new facility.

Melisa Showhan said: "Knock down, start again, do something like Eastbourne's bistro."

Resident Amanda Lyddon said: "Could definitely remove the road level bit and keep the downstairs which has beautiful sea views and needs more love."

According to property agent Fleurets, the venue was put on the market earlier this month and will remain on the market until May 17 when offers will be considered.

A spokesman for Fleurets said that offers of interest have already been received.

Owners Sea Change Sussex said: “We’re inviting proposals from any interested organisations so we can bring this popular venue back into use as soon as possible.

“It’s a two-storey property opposite the Royal Victoria Hotel with panoramic views over the beach and English Channel.

"The lower section was built in the 1930s and the upper part was added in recent years as part of the local regeneration programme.”