TOWN councillors have objected to plan to turn a former fishmongers into a home.

Citi Build Construction based in Marks Tey has applied to convert 44 Church Street in Harwich, which is a Grade II listed building, from retail to residential use.

Councillor David Flavell said he believed the building should remain in retail use.

Speaking at the latest meeting of Harwich Town Council he said: “There are several, small local businesses in Harwich and it would be a shame to lose another potential one to residential.

“The design and access statement is factually incorrect because it states that is has been empty for more than three and a half years and that a marketing campaign has been going for two years.

“I own the property opposite and until very recently there has been someone in there and I am unaware of any marketing campaign.

“This is a way of trying to get it passed through the back door.”

Tendring Council will have the final say on the plans.