ST Osyth Priory is calling on local subcontractors and suppliers to come forward as part of plans to restore the historic site.

Work is underway to restore the priory, which dates back to the 12th century, after permission was given to build new homes, a wedding venue and visitor centre to fund the scheme.

A business plan was launched earlier this month by the site’s owners to reduce the conservation deficit – the gap between funding the restoration and the final value of the buildings.

The Sargeant family and their firm City and Country say they are keen to work with local businesses on the project, which has already seen the restoration of the Grade II listed Bailiff’s Cottage and the Toll Barn, which date back to the 14th century.

Frinton-based specialist joinery business High Class Carpentry worked on the project.

MD Mark Robinson said: “We have restored the intricate oak A-frame trusses, being very careful to keep as close to the original as possible.

“Each of the trusses were taken apart, recorded and numbered before we started the task of restoring them.

“Having carried out the structural restoration work and joinery on Bailiff’s Cottage and the Toll Barn, we are moving on to Darcy House and the Gate House.”

RH Refurbishments worked on the masonry restoration and structural repairs, including the conservation and re-building of one of the chimney stacks.

City and Country boss Helen Moore added: “We are delighted to see works progressing in earnest at St Osyth and proud to have such a dedicated team working with us to achieve an excellent, high quality result.

“There is plenty of work ahead and we are looking for more subcontractors and suppliers to join us on this exceptional project.”

She said any sub-contractors interested in working on the project should visit stosythpriory.com.

Tim Sargeant said he would take on comments made by residents at a consultation event last week.

“Overall it went very well, although we didn’t have as many visitors as we would have liked,” he said.

“Generally, it was positive and people like the restoration works they have seen.

“We do want to work with the local community and some people left helpful comments.

“One of the things people are concerned about is the access into the site and traffic at the crossroads and that is something we will bear in mind. he more we can do on the ground, the more people can see we are making a positive difference and that we do care about the local community.”