HISTORIC almshouses are to be demolished and replaced by new flats to move a charity’s work into the 21st century.

Winsley’s Charity owns 80 almshouses off Old Heath Road, Colchester, which play home to pensioners with strong affiliations with the borough.

Originally, there were just 12 Almshouses, for “twelve ancient men, that have lived well, and fallen into decay” while residents pay no rent to live in the historic accommodation.

Plans submitted to Colchester Council reveal the charity is now seeking to update its facilities at the site which dates back to at least 1726.

The blueprints see ten semi-detached, single-storey houses which have become “substandard” demolished and a new two-storey, 40 metre long building providing 16 flats built instead.

Associated works for vehicle movement and parking, along with new landscaping proposals have also been factored in to the plan.

The planning report reads: “The new building will have a frontage onto Gilberd Road. It is an L-shaped block which creates its own formal garden bordered by enclosing features on the other sides.

“The charity has consulted widely in the residential neighbourhood, with a letter and illustrated leaflet delivered to about seventy homes and an opportunity to view plans.

“None of those consulted responded.”