THE owner of a dilapidated listed building could be forced to make it weather-tight for the first time in 25 years.

Colchester Council is considering serving an urgent works notice on the owner of Brook House, in Maldon Road, Tiptree.

That would require Steven Purdy, of builders’ merchants J Purdy and Sons, to build a roof.

The Grade II-listed building has become an eyesore for villagers and a target for antisocial behaviour.

A meeting took place between parish councillors and representatives from Colchester Borough Council to work out the building’s future.

But Terry Slater, Tiptree Parish Council chairman, said he was disappointed with the outcome.

“In short, there are no funds available to do anything. The building has been that way for a quarter of a century and it has become a major eyesore for all of us.

“We are looking for the building to be at least made weather- tight.”

It is thought the essential repairs would cost about £135,000.

In November 2009, J Purdy and Sons submitted plans to demolish Brook House.

But they were withdrawn following opposition from residents and conservation groups.

A report by a structural engineer found the building could be saved and restored.

A Colchester Council spokeswoman said no formal decision had been reached, but added the council would be seeking to meet the owner to discuss the building’s future.

No money has been set aside by the council for essential repairs.

Jim Purdy, of J Purdy and Sons, said: “This is coming from nowhere.

“A year ago I had a meeting and all parties condemned the place, but they have changed their minds.

“Why, when they have these meetings, do they not invite the owner? It doesn’t make sense.”

Brook House was placed on the register of listed buildings in 1963.