A bid to put together a list of hundreds of potential heritage sites in the Dengie could be rubber-stamped tonight.

Council conservation officers and local historians have been compiling lists of heritage assets in the parishes of Althorne, Cold Norton, North Fambridge, Purleigh and Stow Maries.

The Maldon District contains more than 1,000 nationally listed buildings, which are protected by law.

However, there are many historic buildings which, although they may not meet the criteria for national listing, still have value because of their architectural and historic interest.

A report going before Maldon District Council planners tonight says: “This project is bringing to light numerous interesting and locally valuable historic buildings, reflecting the wealth of heritage within the district.

“Highlights among the heritage assets identified as part of this first phase include picturesque cottages, handsome old school buildings and churches and ambitious high-Victorian farm buildings.

“Such monuments make a valuable contribution to the character and identity of this part of rural Essex.

“Some of the buildings are most notable for their historical interest, including the Old Police Station in Purleigh which is one of the earliest rural police stations in Essex, houses associated with the radical and short-lived Purleigh Colony, and the Second World War floodlight in North Fambridge.

“Maldon District Council has a commitment to protect and enhance the natural and built heritage of the district now and for the enjoyment of future generations.

“Up-to-date lists of assets, which highlight and promote locally important historic buildings in each parish, will be a useful tool in meeting these objectives.”

Individual lists are currently being drafted for each parish by the council’s conservation officer with help from local historians.

The lists will be sent to parishes for comment before going before the district’s planning committee.

One of the criteria for getting on to the list includes structures built between 1840 and 1945.

Others may have social or communal importance, such as war memorials or places of worship.

Once approved, the current list of sites will be updated on the council’s website.