REPAIR works have been approved on a Grade I listed landmark in Colchester city centre after concerns were raised about the building during an inspection in 2021.

Repair and maintenance work has been approved on the Holy Trinity Church, in Trinity Street, following a planning committee meeting.

The 2021 report noted that there was some mould in the rafters, with the status of the exposed timber battens ranging from being structurally sound to badly degraded.

The report concluded there was a risk of the timber roof deteriorating from cracks at roof level unless action is taken.

A large crack was identified along the inside of the eastern gable wall at roof level with damaged and loose roof tiles and deformation of the gable wall over the head of the gable window.

The report also noted several cracks on the masonry wall around the foot, side and head on the eastern side of the eastern most window with the cracks visible from the interior.

The adjacent corner buttress also highlighted signs of movement with both cracking and opening of joints.

The approved repairs include the re-roofing of the south aisle and south chapel, reusing existing clay plain tiles where possible as well as repairs to existing timber trusses and rafters.

The works also include the installation of remedial ties at eaves level within the south chapel, repairs to the stone gable and wall and repairs to rainwater goods and drainage.

The church was made redundant in 1956 with the landmark acting as a museum for a brief period before being used as an arts centre and café.

Currently, the site is vacant and not accessible to the public.

Despite not being in use, the historic site is considered to be a green space between Lion Walk shopping centre and Culver Street.

Lending their approval to the application, Historic England noted: “Holy Trinity is particularly interesting for its fine pre-Conquest west tower, probably built mid 11th century, largely in Roman brick, in three stages with a pyramidal tiled roof.

“Having considered the documentation submitted with the application, including the Heritage Statement, Roof Repairs Schedule and Roof Repairs Specification produced by Colchester Borough Homes, we welcome the proposed works which will assist in safeguarding the overall future of the historic fabric of this Grade I listed building.

"We support the application on heritage grounds.”