The tower block which overlooks the harbour is to appear in a remake of the classic disaster movie Towering Inferno. Ebor Flats, Bridlington’s non-favourite building, will be part of the setting for the updated version of the film, which is to be directed by Steven Spielberg. Ewan McGregor, Harrison Ford and Pamela Anderson are currently discussing the possibility of starring in the movie.

The owners of the block have negotiated a high price for the sale of the building, it is reported. There has been no official announcement of the deal, but figures in the region of £100m have been heard.

Residents of the building will be rehoused in brand new council accommodation when the marina is built, while private owners will be well compensated, said council employee Olaf Pilor.

The first news about the film was leaked by an American stage technician to a cousin in the town, and exposure via the internet has brought the news to England within a few days.

A phone call to Mr Spielberg in Hollywood found no-one was available for comment. It is understood that Mr Spielberg is currently working with Bolly Wood on a film with an eastern flavour.

The storyline of the remake includes the discovery of an unexploded war-time bomb beneath a block of flats. It is understood that Mr Spielberg saw Ebor Flats while browsing a Bridlington man's internet webpage. He mentioned to his colleagues that the tower block was the ideal shape and size for his story.

Hollywood experts are to visit the town next week to make decisions on how best to control the destruction of the building. They are keen to avoid any residual damage in that location.

The company responsible for health and safety on the film set has assured town officials that no seagulls will be hurt during the making of the film. “The company is aware,” he said, “that the seagulls are an integral part of Bridlington’s attraction, and we will be looking after their welfare.

“Shooting the seagulls, sorry the movie, is scheduled for the beginning of April 2009. The publicity for Bridlington will be enormous.”

It is reported that local hotels and guest houses are preparing for a sudden influx of visitors early next year.

Ebor Flats, which are to feature in a new Steven Spielberg film.