The future of the dilapidated former Wesleyan chapel in Heybridge Basin was discussed by councillors today (Tuesday, 2 February).

The chapel in Basin Road, built by Maldon builder and timber merchant John Sadd and Sons in around 1834, is featured on the Save Britain's Heritage website as it is one of the only Georgian nonconformist chapels to survive in its almost original condition.

Known as Heybridge Basin Congregational Chapel by the 1920s, the building has in recent years suffered the results of the elements and often been a place where posters of varying kinds have been pinned.

Left in "a decaying state" as the Save Britain's Heritage website puts it, a meeting of Heybridge Basin Parish Council heard today how the site had been assessed by Maldon District Council's conservation officer, Tim Howson, with regard to its safety and water-tightness – and that a local builder has, free of charge, carried out works to ensure the building has some temporary resistance to the elements.

Planning applications for the building submitted in 2008 and 2017 have come to nothing, including plans to build a fish and chip shop on the spot in an identical style, which were turned down.

The meeting was told how the owners of the building may be available for negotiation on its sale via an agent – and councillors discussed what its future might hold, with ideas mooted that it could become a heritage centre, with and office for the parish council.

Council chair, Councillor Michael Edwards, asked members at the meeting: "What is the end game? Are we talking about something to do with the parish council? Is that something you would want to look at in the future?"

Councillor Anne Beale said: "There could be heritage grants available. It may not be an idea that's as difficult as you think."

Councillor Keith Lawson said: "The chapel is the focal point of the village and probably the only one of its kind left standing."

The meeting agreed that members would investigate the possibilities and potential costs of buying the building and its restoration with a view to further discussion and debate, including an attempt to enter discussions with the two owners' agent on its future.