A CALL has been made for action to restore an historic Colchester building.

The Grade II listed former Sergeants Mess was devastated by fire more than two years ago, leaving a charred shell.

Since the blaze, owners developers Taylor Wimpey has carried out repairs to the building including constructing a new roof.

But Colchester councillor Beverly Davies, who lives near the building, called on Taylor Wimpey to take action to either sell the site or develop it.

Ms Davies, who lives in Roman Circus Walk, which looks out on to the former Sergeants Mess, said: "It is a real eyesore.

"The whole area of the Roman circus is a really lovely area.

"The apartments here have been built so they are in keeping with area with references to the history of the cavalry barracks but the former Sergeants Mess remains a blot on the landscape.

"This area should be vibrant and attractive. It is so frustrating the Sergeants Mess is still left."

Ms Davies also questioned whether the building was secure.

She said: "I don't believe it is. If someone wanted to get in there and start another fire, they could. There is a danger it could go up again.

"I want them to get on with it."

The former Sergeants Mess is a prized building with the starting gates of Britain's only Roman chariot arena sited under its garden.

Colchester Council has given permission for the building to be converted into four terraced houses.

A Taylor Wimpey spokesperson said talks about the future of the building were underway.

She said: “Following the fire at Sergeants’ Mess we have constructed a complete new roof on the fire-damaged section of the building, while the remaining section has been carefully re-tiled to match.

"We have also carried out repair works to ensure the building is secure, including repairs to the chimneys.

“As part of the approved detailed planning consent for this site – which includes listed building and conservation area consent – the building has approval for four high-quality terraced houses which sensitively reflect the significance of this historic building whilst complementing the surrounding area.

“We are currently reviewing the start date for construction and discussions are ongoing.”