A building preservation trust which is restoring a derelict property in the centre of Rochford has been told it must keep a former shopfront, even though it will be a home in future.

The block of three buildings in West Street had been in a rundown and empty condition for a number of years before they were acquired by the district council through a compulsory purchase order.

Restoration work is being carried out by the Southend and District Building Preservation Trust (East) and will become two homes with offices in the centre part of the block.

In a report to councillors, head of planning Shaun Scrutton said alterations proposed were acceptable with one exception.

The trust was proposing to replace the shopfront detail, dating back about 100 years on one property, with a sash window.

Mr Scrutton said it was the council's practice to retain such details within the Rochford conservation area even when a residential conversion was proposed.

Mr Scrutton said the trust had agreed to revise its plans to retain the shopfront and if a new application was received, he was happy to recommend it for approval.

Published Monday August 23, 2004

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