A FIRE-damaged historic building could be bulldozed after plans were unveiled.

Plans have been submitted by the namesake owner of the Hollingtons factory in Coggeshall to have the factory’s largest building demolished.

The complex comprises three adjoined buildings on the corner of Church Street and its junction with Vane Lane.

The buildings were built in the early 1900s and were used for the manufacture of clothing by Hollington’s up to 2013 when production was moved to London.

Concerns have been expressed regarding the condition of the buildings including the danger of slates being blown off the buildings in high winds.

In a report submitted to building control it was recommended that the first of the three buildings should be demolished and rebuilt to comply with current design standards

As well as the poor condition of the roof, there was an arson attempt in February at the building, which is continuing to deteriorate.

Plans submitted to Braintree Council’s planning committee would see the first building knocked down.

According to a report by Braintree Council planning officers, the site is in a conservation area and the building is a non-designated heritage asset but is thought to be beyond economic repair.

The plans have been recommended for approval by Braintree Council planning officers.

In his report, planning development manager Christopher Paggi added: “Whilst it is regrettable there is currently no associated redevelopment plan in place and that this application is necessary, given the risk of danger to the health and safety of members of the public it is concluded that this outweighs the level of harm to the appearance of the conservation area.”

However, Coggeshall Parish Council has objected to the bid.

In its comment, the council said: “Every effort should be made to retain and preserve as much of the structure and fabric of the buildings as possible.

“Future treatment of the buildings and site can then be explored.

“The demolition of Building 1, without any future plans being available would represent a permanent loss and pave the way for the demolition of the rest of the site, much to Coggeshall's detriment.”