A £1.7m bid for cash to help to conserve one of Thurrock's greatest landmarks has been submitted to the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Coalhouse Fort in East Tilbury, which was built in 1860, has been run for many years by volunteer members of the Coalhouse Fort Project.

Now Thurrock Council and Cory Environmental Trust have teamed up with the group to make the bid, and hope to restore and conserve the building together.

John Brice, chair of the Coalhouse Fort Project, said: "Our main objective is to save the fort, after many years of neglect.

"Lack of funds has restricted any repair work, so if our lottery application is successful we will be able to offer our visitors a much-improved experience when visiting the fort."

The Fort is currently open for 18 days each year. If funding is secured, the Fort can be opened on a more regular basis.

Coun Nigel Barron, cabinet member for cultural change and heritage, said: "The fort is an important national monument and its preservation is essential."

It is hoped the bid will be processed by June.

Further information about the Coalhouse Fort Project can be found on www.Coalhousefort.freeserve.co.uk

Published Monday January 14, 2002