Works to repair a popular community hall in Great Clacton have been delayed following a second fire.

Burrsville Public Hall, which is owned by Tendring District Council, was seriously damaged by fire in March last year.

The council’s insurers had arranged for the restoration of the hall and works were expected to be completed by mid-April.

But the works have been delayed after the hall, in Gorse Lane, was again hit by fire on Sunday evening.

Peter Kotz, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Assets, said: "We are deeply saddened and frustrated by the recent fire at Burrsville Public Hall.

“Work had begun in January to restore the hall following last year’s fire.

“Sadly, the building and some nearby sheds were damaged by a further fire on Sunday evening.

“We are now awaiting the outcome of a joint investigation by Essex Police and Essex County Fire and Rescue Service into the cause of the fire.

“Due to this latest incident, a further insurance claim and additional works will be necessary, meaning it will now take longer before the building is back in use.

“The fire was mainly confined to storage sheds, but it also affected fencing and a neighbour’s shed.

“One of the doors to the rear of the building has been damaged and will now need to be replaced, and a section of the building gable that had just been replaced needs to be repaired again.

“Fortunately, the fire didn’t catch the roof trusses, which had just been ice-blasted to clean off the smoke damage from the previous fire.

“We are working closely with the authorities to investigate these incidents and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

“In the meantime, we remain committed to restoring the hall to its former glory as quickly as possible.

“We appreciate the community's patience and support while this latest incident is investigated.”

The hall has been used by Burrsville Residents’ Association since April 1987, with a 21-year extension to the lease being signed in 2014.

The cause of the fire in March 2024 was recorded as undetermined.

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