An "unauthorised" holiday accomodation that is listed on Airbnb has been ordered to shut down, after operating for around five years. 

The hotel-type business at Reddings Farm in Reddings Lane, Tillingham, has around four staff and can sleep at least 16 people.

The building is Grade II listed and has been open to customers without permission after plans were agreed upon for it to be used as seasonal worker accommodation a decade ago.

The site also includes a commercial business that buys, sells and refurbishes various types of machinery.

The owners had applied for continued use of The Dairy as holiday accommodation with retention of related alterations.

It has sparked anger from neighbours with residents claiming there have been issues with "drunken antisocial behaviour."

At a meeting of Maldon District Council's south eastern area planning committee on April 9, a planning officer said there had been 26 comments in support and seven objections.

The officer's report states that the unauthorised use began between 2019 and 2021.

The meeting also heard concerns about parking and the location.

The accommodation is currently still listed with Air BnB online today (April 15) days after the meeting and costs £450 per night.

Five nights costs £2,300, with an additional cleaning fee of £120 and Airbnb service fee of £410.

It is described as a "spacious and unique retreat, perfect for large groups seeking comfort and relaxation."

It offers a living room, kitchen and dining area, utility room, eight bedrooms, bathroom and outdoor space.

One resident told the meeting: "The access to this building is dangerous, the main entrance door is adjacent to the main entrance to Reddings Farm.

"There is a fire escape door and ramp, this opens directly onto what is a full time commercial access for large vehicles.

"This door opens within meters of the boundary of our property and directly overlooks it.

"Over the last four years there has been many guests who, because of lack of external amenities, open the door, and use this area for smoking, drinking, playing music, and making lots of noise with some drunken antisocial behaviour.

"Guests have played football and even brought their own personal stereos."

A representative of the owners said: "As farmers we are being encouraged by the Government to diversify.

"We feel strong responsibility to preserve this historic listed building, the upkeep costs are considerable and without a sustainable use, this building risks falling into disrepair.

"The accommodation supports employment. We currently have four part time staff, we regularly employ trades people to help us keep the building in good condition which also contributes to the economy.

"To date no complaints have been upheld or substantiated despite being reported to multiple authorities.

"I encourage you to support this application because it boosts the local economy, employs local people and keeps a historic building alive."

The application was refused by the committee.