A listed village landmark might collapse before it is given a new use, it is warned.

Thorpe Maltings, in Station Road, Thorpe, has stood empty for many years and has become an eyesore.

The 19th century structure, which took a battering in the strong winds in October and towards the end of last year, was listed in 1998.

Various schemes have been put forward for the site and a design brief was drawn up by Tendring Council.

But so far nothing has been agreed for the buildings, owned by Rosegrade.

Thorpe parish councillors are concerned about the demise of the structure and fear that it will collapse before anything positive is done to save it for the future.

Mike Page, Tendring Council spokesman said: "We are working with the owners and other interested agencies to find a suitable outcome."

Published Thursday, January 16, 2003

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