RESIDENTS have called on Essex Police to make good use of the now derelict police station building in Maldon.

Essex Police closed down its station in West Square, Maldon in July, with their new centre opening at the Maldon District Council offices in August.

The Standard revealed last week that the station building was worth more than £400,000. Essex Police plan to put the building up for sale in the coming months.

But Maldon residents have called on the police to put the building and funds to good use, with some suggesting it be used for an accident and emergency department.

Jonathan Waller said: “I would like to see the money go towards an accident and emergency unit added to St Peters hospital to save lives.

“At the moment most off the so-called “golden hour” is used in travelling time getting to Broomfield Hospital.”

Terry Coker said: “I have never had the pleasure of looking inside but have used the exterior in a movie I made called Essex vendetta, I’d say it was worth 400k and I agree an A&E in Maldon is needed, especially now it is growing at such a rate.

“Maybe a smaller station somewhere local, one to cover all the surrounding villages?”

Lisa Cullumbine said: “A police museum would be good to preserve Maldon’s history for our children and their children also educational for children.

“When I was at school we had trips to see the station and go round it and see the cells.”

Historian Stephen Nunn said he was sad to see the station go.

He said: “It was a sad sight to see the station close down, I understand the police needed a new, more stable base.

“However, if it were to turn into flats or houses I would be very disappointed, as it’s the gateway to the town and an important part of the high street.

“I hope whoever takes over the station will treat the building with dignity and sensitivity.”