The Archbishop of Canterbury has been called on to intervene in Basildon's beleaguered belltower project.

Engineering firm Burro Happold, owed more than £50,000 for consultancy work, has written to Dr George Carey asking for his help.

The Bath-based firm, which became involved in the belltower's design and construction back in 1992, got a reply almost immediately.

Right Reverend Richard Llewellin, the Bishop of Lambeth, said: "Dr Carey is seeking advice before he sends you a full reply, but wants you to know that this matter has his consideration and he will be replying more fully in due course."

Buro Happold is still awaiting this response.

A spokesman said: "We are considering the next step to take to retrieve the amount outstanding."

Builders Mowlem Construction is still owed around £750,000 and has a county court judgment out on St Martin's Parochial Church Council (PCC). Mowlem has refused to rule out dismantling the 85ft glass and steel tower and selling it off.

Detectives at Rayleigh CID have been investigating allegations of "financial irregularities" in the PCC's accounts while under the control of former Canon Lionel Webber.

In a High Court hearing, held by Mowlem last month, Mr Webber admitted writing £2m in bounced cheques and also paying his own secretary out of church funds.

The Church of England was unavailable for comment on Dr Carey's next move.

By Carl Eve

Reporter's e-mail: carl.eve@notes.newsquest.co.uk

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