Plans to begin the first steps in revamping the waterfront in Burnham after a boat was left capsized are now in motion.

Maldon District Council’s planning committee discussed the idea of removing the flooded Llys Helig houseboat to make space for three new houseboats to moor there.

The houseboat has been lying on its side since 2017 after a freshwater tap leak caused it to flood.

The council is now looking to put in a planning application and get the ball rolling to remove the eyesore.

A report says: “Members will be aware that Llys Helig currently lies on her side in an area of foreshore owned by Maldon District Council.

“Work has been undertaken which should see a salvage operation undertaken by the owner to recover the vessel in late summer or early autumn.

“In order to remove the Llys Helig, piles will need to be driven into the riverbed in this area and the appropriate Marine Management Organisation licence has been sought.

“Other permissions, risk assessments and method statements necessary to undertake the recovery, are being put in place at present.

“Once the Llys Helig has been removed, the void space would allow for new piles to be sunk and a jetty created which could accommodate three houseboats.”

The location does not have current planning permission for residential use.

But the report adds: “The proposed development would provide new housing opportunities for Burnham, utilise a key and desirable location alongside the River Crouch, and provide an income stream for the council.”

Councillor Ian Dobson proposed an amendment as he was concerned the plan was only for three houseboat spaces instead of four.

He said: “I don’t see why we should constrain ourselves to two or three places when there is obviously room for four. I don’t understand the logic.”

The decision was approved with a proposed maximum of four houseboats.

Ian Dobson is standing in the May 2 local elections. The other candidates contesting the Heybridge West ward are:

Ian Dobson (Conservative)

Michael Edwards (Independent)

Robert Long (Conservative)

Chrisy Morris (Independent)