18th Century house could become cafe or museum

An 18th Century country house in Essex could be turned into a cafe or museum after months of closure.

Castle Point Borough Council wants to transform the vacant Solby House at the John Burrows Recreation Ground in Hadleigh into a place to serve the community.

The building was used as temporary housing but has been boarded up since June when the last tenancy expired.

The council has applied to the housing secretary to allow the building to be repurposed.

The building was purchased by the former Benfleet Urban District Council in 1936, and was then used over the decades as accommodation for older residents before becoming temporary housing.

Castle Point councillors believe the site is better suited for leisure activities rather than housing, and will require renovations to transform it.

Options being considered include a cafe and public toilets for park visitors, a museum, an archive or learning centre for schools, or a meeting space for community groups.

Warren Gibson, the independent deputy leader of the council, said: "I have been fighting to get something done on this site since I was first elected.

"It is fantastic to see real progress being made and I am determined that Solby House will finally be put to use in a way that benefits the whole community."

Rob Lillis, responsible for health, wellbeing and housing, said: "Solby House has a proud history in Hadleigh and this decision ensures it will continue to serve our community."

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