Maldon Town Council has recommended approval of an application to replace the outbuilding at a Grade II listed building on Abbey Turning.

Members of the town council's planning committee recommended approval of the plans to replace the dilapidated single-storey pitched roof outbuilding at the historic Beeleigh Grange.

The proposal involves the replacement of the storm-damaged and partially-collapsed outbuilding with a new pitched roof outbuilding, with materials replicating those of the current building as closely as possible.

Councillor Martin Harvey, who is chairman of the planning committee, said: "When looking at this, it is really dilapidated."

Agreeing, Councillor Michael Pearlman, the vice-chairman, said: "I think it obviously needs sorting out."

The application documents state that the current outbuilding needs replacing because "it is unsound and dangerous due to the storm and tree damage, and beyond economical repair".

Councillor Flo Shaughnessy said: "Hopefully it is like for like, if they say replacement, because it looks quite interesting."

Councillor Pearlman proposed to recommend approval of the application, subject to comment from Maldon District Council's conservation officer. Councillor Mark Heard seconded the proposal, which was voted through unanimously.

Maldon District Council will make the final decision.