FOLLOWING news that the trustees on the Coalhouse Fort Project have closed down the volunteer group that has run East Tilbury's historic site since 1983 Thurrock Council says it is considering its options for the future.

Cllr Deb Huelin, Cabinet member for communities, said: "The Coalhouse Fort Project Management Committee recently decided to disband the charity. Thurrock Council respects that decision and is grateful for all the work that the Coalhouse Fort Project has undertaken over the past 35 years.

"We recognise the time, effort and commitment that this group has dedicated to the site's preservation and restoration – for this, the council offers its thanks.

"The council is exploring options for the future management and maintenance of the Fort to ensure that this important heritage site is maintained and remains available for residents and visitors to explore."

The site is owned by the Council, which members of the Project say has been supportive - though a number of the volunteers, including Fort stalwart Ken Levy have been more critical (link via red button below).

The Coalhouse Fort management committee issued the following statement after announcing its immediate closure: "After 35 years of working to maintain, restore and promote Coalhouse Fort, it was unanimously decided at our management committee meeting on Sunday, 26 January to disband the Coalhouse Fort Project registered charity.

"This news was communicated to the volunteers and members at the AGM, immediately following the committee meeting.

"The decision was not made lightly or without consideration for the Fort, but rather we feel this marks the beginning of its next chapter.

"When the project began in the 1980s the Fort was physically falling apart, having been derelict for most of the 30 years following the dissolution of Coastal Defence in 1956.

"But with the energy, enthusiasm and hard work of its countless volunteers across the years, thousands of members of the public have had the chance to explore this historical treasure.

"In recent years, Thurrock Council have taken a broader interest in the Fort. With their help, and Heritage Lottery funding, parts of the Fort such as the Gatehouse have been reinstated. Going forward, works will continue to open more rooms and give new purpose to this fantastic building.

"We feel that this work can and will continue without the Project, especially now that a solid foundation has been laid.

"We wish to take this opportunity to thank all volunteers who have given their time and experience across the years as well as everyone who has shown an interest in Coalhouse Fort by coming to an open day."