ALTHOUGH more than 230 residents in Lyme Regis have called on West Dorset District Council to compulsorily purchase the derelict former Three Cups Hotel, in Broad Street, the Dorchester-based authority has told the Herald such a move would be a last reso

ALTHOUGH more than 230 residents in Lyme Regis have called on West Dorset District Council to compulsorily purchase the derelict former Three Cups Hotel, in Broad Street, the Dorchester-based authority has told the Herald such a move would be a "last resort". Owners Palmers Brewery announced redevelopment plans 24 hours before a public meeting was staged last Friday. A council spokesperson said: "All other options must be explored in the council tax payers' interest and that of the community as a whole. In the light of the current pre-application decisions, it would be premature to consider such action. Any proposals from the community would be considered.