Maldon town councillors have recommended approval of a proposal to carry out works to a listed building in the town, following damage to its basement caused by floods.

Members of the town council's planning committee came to the decision last night (Monday 1 November) on the basis that the works proposed for the Grade II listed building, at 42-44 Market Hill, are "essential".

Councillor Michael Pearlman said: "It's work that has got to be carried out, otherwise it's going to become a bigger problem.

"It's absolutely essential."

The works involve installing waterproofing to the basement of the building, fitting air bricks and an extractor fan and installing a French drain.

In the design and access statement for the application, the agent said: "The basement of the property has suffered from flooding caused by ground water passing through the walls.

"The aim of the project is to install a system to remove the water in a non-invasive manner.

"The timber sole plate is also suffering from water ingress and is showing signs of decay which will be addressed by installing a French drain."

Councillor David Ogg, the town mayor, said: "It's damp, it's pretty awful - it certainly needs some work done."

Councillor Pearlman proposed to recommend approval of the plans - this was seconded by Councillor Flo Shaughnessy and unanimously voted through by members.

Maldon District Council will have the final say.