A LANDMARK near Sidmouth seafront is set for a much-needed makeover – but its civic leader owners have opted not to enlist the help of ex-cons.

Sidmouth in Bloom (SiB) wants to revitalise the algae-covered wall next to the Ham, and replace its murals, as part of its bid to land the town national glory this summer.

The voluntary group asked the town council for permission to proceed with the project and a contribution but members were initially reluctant to give it their blessing without cost estimates.

SiB leaders had lined up the Probation Service to carry out work on the wall and, separately, Sidmouth College students to create new murals.

Sidmouth Town Council decided behind closed doors last week that it would grant permission for SiB to replace the murals – but it would use its own contractor to repair and repaint the wall.

Councillors also ruled that proposed designs and ideas for the new murals must be agreed by the town clerk in consultation with the chairman of the council and of the tourism and economy committee.

A gold award in last year’s South West in Bloom has seen Sidmouth nominated to represent the region in the 2014 Britain in Bloom contest.

SiB’s Peter Endersby told the council that ‘pride of place’ is a big factor in judging and that officials have previously commented on the state of the display near the swimming pool.

SiB chairman Lynette Talbot said of the council’s resolution: “If that is their decision, we will abide by it.”

She added that students from Sidmouth College will still create the new murals – with the bloom group funding the materials.

“It’s all part of the community effort,” added Lynette.

“We want to make people aware what the [college] students have to offer the town.”

She praised the ‘huge amount’ of work put into the project by Peter.

Lynette added that flower urns at the Ham will be redecorated to match the sea wall.