A Co Antrim landmark building is to be demolished and replaced with a luxury hotel.

The top floor and back staircases have already been removed from the Metropole building in Portrush, according to a report in the News Letter.

"The final decision will be made soon, but demolition and the hotel is the favoured option," said co-owner Drew Hempton, adding that a final option would emerge within the next few weeks.

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The Metropole building is 100 years old this year and has been used a hotel, a residential home, a hostel and even a rest home for soldiers during the First World War. It has also become an iconic part of the route taken by riders in the North West 200 motorcycle race.

The building has been empty since June last year and a recent fire accelerated the removal of the top floor.

Ulster Unionist councillor Norman Hillis has welcomed the plans to redevelop the site.

"Portrush needs such a facility," he said.

"There are too many scars on the town, with buildings being acquired for apartments, and left virtually derelict with the fall in property prices – they are all over the town, and hopefully this iconic corner will be enhanced."

(NS/BMcc)