WALTON is shabby, with too many vacant and dilapidated buildings, a hard-hitting report has said.

The draft Walton Regeneration Framework report also criticised the town for having no banks or building societies, and for a lack of job prospects.

It also said there are not enough tourist attractions, a lack of public transport, parking, youth facilities, police officers and health services, such as dentists.

Tendring Council’s regeneration company INTend commisioned consultants BNP Paribas Real Estate and Edaw to create a framework for the regeneration of the resort, funded by £100,000 from the Haven Gateway Partnership.

The report, which forms part of the framework, said: “Walton is characterised by a lack of economic diversity and a job market dominated by low wage, low skill and seasonal service sector employment.

“The town also suffers from a high proportion of long-term unemployment and relatively high levels of crime, compared to neighbouring areas.”

It said the town had a “poor image” and suffered from antisocial behavior, a poor quality and range of attractions and accommodation for visitors, and a lack of indoor activities.

The report suggested the town needed to build a strong year-round economy, rather than rely on seasonal trade and added it should strengthen its environmental and heritage assets.

John Bowles, project director at BNP Paribas Real Estate, said: “Walton has a great deal to offer. It is reassuring to have experienced the enthusiasm and desire to both preserve and promote the town’s natural and physical assets.”

The report calls for an improved appearance and range of shops, such as an internet cafe, as well as better bus services, free parking and the introduction of residents’ parking permits.

It also said more activities were needed at the Columbine Centre, and recommended the creation of a skate park, an upgrade of the boating lake and improved facilities at Walton Pier. It said improved access to the water as a recreational resource was required, as were more after-school clubs, a new dental surgery and a greater police presence.

Residents are being asked to have their say on the report, at Walton Library, on September 3, from 9.30am until 3.30pm, and at Titchmarsh Marina, on September 5, from 9am until 2.30pm.

The final report will be submitted to Tendring Council later this year.