One of Maldon's most cherished buildings has been bought by the boss of a computer firm.

Chris Clarke, of Fox Computers Ltd, plans to turn the derelict Victorian east railway station in Station Road into the nerve centre of his flourishing software business.

Contracts are due to be exchanged within days and Mr Clarke, who is based next door, is understood to have paid a six-figure sum to restore the Grade II-listed building to its former glory.

The station last enjoyed life as Trax nightclub and the Great Eastern Motel in the late 80s.

Defunct property firm Danbury Developments plc bought the station for more than £440,000 in 1988, but plans to develop the site for flats never saw the light of day.

It has remained vacant and has deteriorated over the last decade.

Planning permission, including listed building consent, was granted last year for conversion into offices and some work has already started on replacing rotten timbers and windows.

East station was built in 1846 for the Great Eastern Counties Railway Company and was one of two stations which originally served Maldon until the town's rail links were axed in the early 1960's

The two-storey building has attics and includes a platform canopy at the back with two main pavilions linked by a balcony.

It is regarded as a classic example of Jacobean-style architecture with its impressive red brickwork and arches.

Mr Clarke was unavailable for comment today.

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