A HUNDRED-year-old church hall is to be registered as an asset of community value.

A nomination was received from Mistley Thorn Residents’ Association for St Mary’s Church Hall in New Road, Mistley.

Tendring Council had to decide whether the building met the necessary definition as set out in the Localism Act.

The council's cabinet agreed with the move at a meeting on Friday as it felt the hall use furthers the social wellbeing or social interests of the community.

It means that if the owners wish to sell the property they must tell the council and the council will inform the residents’ association and publicise the sale.

Community groups would have six weeks to register their intent to bid and if they do so within the time limit they would have six months to come up with money.

If a group does not make a bid then the hall could be sold in the normal way.

Neil Stock, leader of the council, said this initiative had worked well for a couple of pubs in Tendring where they had been bought and run by the community, rather than close down.

“This is one nomination I am quite happy to support and I can see no reason not to,” he said.

Carlo Guglielmi, cabinet member for enforcement, community safety and finance, said the hall is known as The Institute as it was the first meeting place of the Women’s Institute.

“It dates back to 1911 and is an example of the arts and crafts movement supported by the likes of William Morris,” he added.

“The Institute has been listed as a Grade II building of special architectural or historic interest.”

“There has been a steady decline of usage due to more up to date buildings in the area.”

“There are concerns about its financial viability but the nominators want to try to make it sustainable and I also back this bid 100 per cent.”

Mr Guglielmi said that if the facility was to close it would a great loss to the community.