A HISTORIC Thurrock bell tower is set to be restored after winter weather took its toll on the structure.

A planning application has been submitted to Thurrock Council to repair the bell tower in 16th century Little Belhus House in South Ockendon.

If permission is granted, the timber bell tower will be replaced and the bell and surrounding roof will be restored.

The property, in Little Belhus Close, was built in 1576 for Nicholas De Belhus and subsequently passed to the Barrett-Lennard family.

Queen Elizabeth I was said to have stayed at the property on her way to Tilbury to visit her troops before they set off to fight the Armada.

The garden was landscape by Capability Brown, and includes a Mulberry tree bought over from China during the 1700's.

The front porch features a rectangular panel of the Stuart Royal Arms of between 1603 and 1689 given to a local Knight by James 1st.

The work is said to be of vital importance. Scaffolding is already in place at the rear of the building for access to the bell tower so that work can be immediately carried out once approval is granted.

Applicant Paul Laidlaw said: "Immediate action is required in order to halt water ingress from the bell tower where the timber surrounds have rotted with all work to be carried out replacing on a like for like basis using traditional materials including timbers, roofing felt, nails, lime mortar.

"The Bell will be recast and repositioned on the supports to restore it to its rightful place in the centre of the bellicote.

"The bell tower will be restored to its former state as the centrepiece of this historic building and local landmark."

Mr Laidlaw added: "I cannot overstate the requirement for a prompt reply as the present inclement weather is bringing continuing water ingress to the loft space and damage to internal wall plasterwork on two floor levels."

The property was extensively renovated late 1960s when the original roof coverings were completely stripped and re-laid.