An unused building in Walton-on-the-Naze could be brought back into commercial use under proposals for Tendring District Council (TDC) to sell the vacant property.

The building in Mill Lane was originally constructed as a fire station in the early 20th century and later housed public toilets.

It has been closed and unused since 2017 and requires significant investment before it can be brought back into use.

TDC has now approved the freehold disposal of the property, allowing the proposed sale to a local resident to move forward.

The prospective purchaser intends to operate a computer repair and maintenance business from the building, providing computer and IT support to the local community.

Councillor Peter Kotz, TDC’s Portfolio Holder for Assets and Community Safety, said: “We are pleased to have taken a decision that allows the proposed sale of a Walton building that has stood empty for almost nine years to move forward.

“After several attempts to find a viable occupier, the proposed sale would provide an opportunity for the building to be refurbished and brought back into use, while removing an ongoing maintenance liability and achieving market value for taxpayers.”

The council previously paused plans to demolish the building after residents raised concerns and a petition was considered in 2018, allowing more time for alternative uses to come forward. Several attempts have since been made to secure a viable tenant, but none came to fruition.

A further tender process earlier this year invited both leasehold and freehold proposals.

Following negotiations with the prospective purchaser, an agreement in principle was reached at market value. The sale remains subject to the usual legal formalities.