LISTED buildings in South Essex are not being registered and cared for properly.

Historic England has put together an at risk register of listed buildings in the area, detailing their condition and how vulnerable they are.

Currently, there are two buildings in the Southend area that qualify but none in Basildon or Castle Point.

This could be because none have been identified, or because they are in a good state of repair and so do not need to be put on the list.

Manor House, in Suttons Road, south Shoebury, was built in 1681 and is a Grade II* listed building.

The building has been vacant for many years and is badly damaged inside due to dry rot and water damage.

Historic England has listed the building as in a poor state of repair and at immediate risk.

The government agency is also concerned about the Crowstone, off Chalkwell beach, which it says is deteriorating rapidly and is already in a poor condition.

Historian Ian Yearsley said: “The Manor House pre-dates Southend town.

“The fact that it has been listed shows that English Heritage recognises that it is an important building historically.

“The Crowstone marks the limit of the Port of London Authority’s jurisdiction.

“The London mayor used to come down and do a ceremony, but that doesn’t happen any more and I think it has been forgotten about.

“It is a local landmark and important historically.”

A spokesman from Historic England said: “It’s important we protect our historic buildings as once they’re gone, they’re gone forever

“One of these sites is a Conservation Area and another is a Grade II* listed building so very important within the national context.

“The Heritage at Risk Register exists to highlight the plight of the historic buildings and places which need the most help, ideally attracting attention and funding to get them off the register.

“The register, in everywhere but London, includes Grade I and Grade II* listed buildings.”