A LANDMARK building in Hadleigh Country Park has been dismantled after costs to restore it were “too expensive”.

The Hadleigh Roundhouse, in the country park, has been demolished as it had “reached the end of its natural life span”.

Essex County Council say that the costs to restore the roof and building was “prohibitive”.

As a result, the facility has been dismantled with no plans at this stage to return it.

The Hadleigh Roundhouse was used as a museum and for educational purposes.

Its demolition has left residents feeling disappointed.

One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “I was shocked to see they have taken down the roundhouse museum.

“It is such a shame that this educational facility has been removed.”

Back in 2017, the community landmark was subject to an arson attack which caused thousands of pounds worth of damage.

The roof of the replica iron-age round house was set on fire deliberately.

The building is a reconstruction of a chieftain’s house from the late Iron Age, which started around 750 BC.

It was used for community and educational events.

Plans had been submitted to Castle Point Council to change the use of the land and roundhouse building from an education centre to a nursery.

But plans are yet to be decided on.

A spokesman for Essex County Council said: “The replica roundhouse at Hadleigh Country Park has been safely dismantled as the facility had reached the end of its natural life span and the cost to restore the roof and building was prohibitive.

“Since its creation, we are proud that the replica roundhouse has been used extensively by children and families, the local community and education providers.

“We are looking to ensure that the local community can continue to benefit from exciting outdoor educational experiences at Hadleigh Country Park.”