A NATIONAL body which protects historic theatres has objected to plans to demolish Colchester's old Odeon and replace it with flats.

The Theatres Trust, which promotes protection of historic arts venues, has criticised at Blumarble's plans to pull down the Crouch Street premises and create 55 apartments.

The building's iconic facade will be replaced under the developer's plans, however the trust says the Cecil Massey original is of national importance.

It said: "On the basis of total loss of the original building we object to this proposal.

"Although not statutorily listed, the frontage of this building is nonetheless an important an important and significant asset not just within the immediate context of Crouch Street but regionally and even nationally given its association with Massey and being a survivor of his provincial work.

"Whilst we accept the applicant's objective of delivering a scheme which offers an acceptable commercial return, this should not come to the detriment of the scheme's benefits and loss of heritage."

It added: "Notwithstanding its vacant and deteriorating state it is an important contributor to the Colchester Town Centre Conservation Area and is recognised as one of the more interesting buildings in Crouch Street."

The application has drawn criticism from residents and community groups, including Colchester Cycling Campaign, which has called for it to be a "car-free development" due to its town centre location.

However Colchester Civic Society said it is supportive of redevelopment of the site and Crouch Street, which used to be known as "the Bond Street of Colchester", needed redevelopment.

A spokesman said: "Along with the majority of residents we have despaired at the lack of activity and the gradual dereliction of the building over the years of ownership blight and development problems.

"If we are obliged to accept this new scheme then the society is adamant the quality of the frontage replication must be conditional to the consent.

"The society does appreciate the cinema has a high communal value and many in the town have considerable memories invested in the structure.

"We also are fully aware this site has no future as as concert venue, cinema or indoor market as many would suggest."

The spokesman added: "We are anxious only we acquire the best design to revitalise our premier shopping street."

The planning committee will have the final say on the plans after ward councillor Mark Goacher (Green, Castle) called in the application.