AMBITIOUS plans to restore one of Tendring’s most at-risk historic buildings as part of a multi-million pound redevelopment have been given the green light.

Developers Rosegrade have been given the go-ahead to convert Thorpe’s crumbling Grade II-listed maltings and the old King Edward VII pub in nearby Station Road into more than 50 homes.

Part of the 1874 building, next to Thorpe railway station, will be demolished, but as much as possible of the original structure will be kept.

The plans were approved by Tendring Council’s planning committee.

Peter Hollis, of Rosegrade, said the massive scheme would help regenerate the area.

He said: “It offers Thorpe the opportunity to see the area redeveloped and will commence the regeneration of the Thorpe Station Conservation Area.

“It will provide many benefits for the village.”

The plans will see 31 apartments constructed over three floors in the maltings building, as well as a further 20 homes.

Five of those houses will replace a former stable block.

Three apartments will also be built in the empty King Edward VII pub.

Tendring Council said Rosegrade had spent 30 years coming up with the right plan for the site.

A spokesman said planning conditions will ensure the malting does not lose its historic character.

The exact cost of the project is yet to be confirmed.