Civic leaders are ‘delighted’ to have received three tenders from firms interested in working on the Port Royal project.

As key landowners in the area, Sidmouth Town Council and East Devon District Council are commissioning a study to help them understand whether the renewal of Port Royal is viable, and what the potential development might include.

The study is the very first step in exploring renewal options for the area and it will provide expert opinion on the opportunities and constraints of any development.

It will also identify the boundaries, ownership and the needs of existing occupants.

Town council chairman Councillor Jeff Turner said: “We are delighted to have received three submissions - it demonstrates the level of interest from the professional advisors and their confidence that this site represents an exciting opportunity for Sidmouth, with which they wish to be involved.

“We look forward to making our selection and appointment early in the New Year.”

The consultants selected to carry out the study will work with both councils and the Port Royal scoping study reference group, which is made up of representatives from Sidmouth town organisations, the councils and Devon County Council.