Talks over the future of an ancient monument along the Jaywick coastline are due to take place next month.

A number of suggestions have been put forward for the Martello Tower, among them a home for the 95th Rifles, a regimental organisation.

Essex County Council has commissioned a feasibility study to look into the costs involved in restoring the 19th century structure, which was used to defend the coast against an invasion by Napoleon.

The report will also consider all possible future uses for the building.

The council is working closely with the owners of the Tower Caravan Park. The aim is to attract major cash grants to renovate the tower.

Among other suggestions for the Jaywick tower are a permanent exhibition on the history of the village, including the 1953 floods.

Published Thursday, February 21, 2002