A LANDMARK building left open to the elements could be saved after Basildon Council vowed to take matters into its own hands.

Elizabeth Cottage, in Billericay High Street, had its roof ripped off more than eight months ago after the owners began knocking down the building without planning permission.

A civil injunction stopping the demolition ran out at the end of August and council officials have been looking into options to save the house, which was built in 1903.

They are now preparing a report which is due to be discussed by cabinet in January.

It will set out recommendations including temporarily covering the roof with tarpaulin to stop wind and rain damaging the building beyond repair.

Billericay businessman Trevor Draper, who owns the Cook Shop, said: “It’s a positive move, but it’s frustrating and sad the council has not been able to prioritise it because of other work. I would have liked to see resources ploughed into this sooner.

“My concern has always been the longer it takes for something to happen, the more irreparable damage is going to be done.”

The Echo understands Basildon Council has struggled to get in contact with the four joint owners of Elizabeth Cottage as they live abroad.

The building, which was last used as a family home 40 years ago, is in the town's conservation area, but has stood empty for many years.

Bob Reeves, from the Billericay Society, who has been campaigning for action alongside Mr Draper, added: “Elizabeth Cottage seems to be down the pecking order.

“Billericay used to be such a lovely town, but we've had businesses closing and now Elizabeth Cottage looks a total mess. It doesn't look very safe either, and I’m sure if someone walked under it when there was a big gust of wind they could be hit by loose bits of roof.

“Elizabeth Cottage must be completely sodden inside now.

It’s such a shame.”

Phil Turner, leader of Basildon Council, said: “The owners have not, in our opinion, been taking good care of the building.

“Elizabeth Cottage is in the High Street and part of the conservation area, and we pay particular attention to looking after our town centres. It is bringing the whole tone of Billericay High Street down.”