PAVING tiles dating back to the Victorian era have been deemed "worthy of conservation" after campaigners called for urgent repairs.

Catherine Spindler, from Colchester, took issue with the run-down state of Artillery Barracks Folley, a footpath which runs between Butt Road and Walsingham Road.

She raised the matter with councillor Lyn Barton, Colchester Council's heritage champion, who looked into the history of the folley.

Its namesake is a former nearby barracks, which were later renamed Le Cateau Barracks in honour of those in the Royal Field Artillery who died during the Battle of Le Cateau during the First World War.

The folley likely falls within the ownership of the Ministry of Defence.

Ms Barton said: "It is important that we preserve any of our unique heritage whenever possible.

"I raised this with Colchester Council, who have informed me that the tiles appear Victorian and will investigate whether it is possible to preserve them, as has been the case elsewhere."

Ms Spindler added: "I am delighted the preservation of the tiles is going to be investigated by the council.

"It would be wonderful if they can be retained due to their unique appearance.

"It would be interesting to find out more about why are where they come from."

A Colchester Council spokesman said: "The tiles are probably late-Victorian, rare in Colchester and worthy of conservation.

"We are working on a development brief for the land to the south of the Folley, which is likely to come forward soon for development as the MOD continues to divest itself of surplus land.

"When an application is received, possible developer s106 contributions will be considered as part of the planning application process.

"This could also include improvements to local transport infrastructure and the condition of Folley Lane, to encourage walking and cycling."