ARCHAEOLOGISTS are set to go head to head with celebrity chef Jamie Oliver over his plans to renovate his new £6m Tudor mansion.

Mr Oliver is seeking planning permission to make a number of changes to Spains Hall in Finchingfield, which he purchased earlier this year.

Archaeologists group Place Services have slammed the plans over fears of "archaeological and historical interest".

Mr Oliver's plans include renovation to the kitchen, the addition of CCTV posts, replacing floorboards and the construction of new gates at the end of his 250 metre driveway.

Teresa O'Connor Historic Environment Officer from Place Services said: "The proposed development will affect a site of archaeological and historical interest.

"The historic significance of these are discussed in the submitted Heritage Statement however little visual evidence accompanies this and the significance of these features is not fully assessed.

"Prior to any alterations to the features surrounding the house and within the garden programme of archaeological recording should be completed to document and asses the features proposed for alteration."

The Grade I listed estate sprawls over 70 acres and includes a great hall, games room, two drawing rooms and a wine cellar.

Essex County Council's historic buildings consultant David Sorapure said in his report: "The scheme is well conceived and the proposed extension has been designed to retain the legibility of the original historic building.

"The conservation aspect of the proposal also helps to further justify and mitigate any impact of the overall scheme.

"The scheme would have a beneficial impact on the historic building, sustaining its significance and ensuring its viable use, consistent with its conservation.

"Therefore, I have no objection to the proposal."