SOUTHEND’S Saxon king burial site looks set to get national recognition for its historical importance.

Southend Council officials are in the process of applying for the site, near Priory Park, to be registered as a scheduled ancient monument.

If granted, the site, which was discovered by archaeologists in 2003, will bring the total number of such monuments in the town to seven.

It would mean the site would be registered as an area of national significance and that any development on or near it would require special consent.

Anna Waite, cabinet member for health and housing, arranged the application following a 2009 agreement with campaigners which ended a four-year long protest at Camp Bling, which had been set up to protect the site.

She said: “This will provide the best protection possible for this important burial site.

“It should not be built upon or disturbed further, but should now revert to a pleasant tranquil place that reflects the heritage of the burial site of a Saxon king or prince.

“It should not take too long to get through and it will give the area the same protection as Priory Park.

“It was some time ago that we had a meeting to find a way forward to the Priory Crescent issues that suited everyone. We have gone further to honour the spirit of the agreement to respect both the site and the wishes of the residents.”

The discovery of the burial site, which dates back 1,400 years to 630 AD, revealed a treasure trove of 60 Saxon gems, including two gold foil crosses, a gold buckle, gold braid and coins, plus coloured glass and copper bowls.

A council spokesman said if the status was approved it could attract more visitors to the site.

Mark Sharp, a member of Saxon King in Priory Park said: “Our initial thoughts are that we welcome this application, as we have always wanted the site to be protected and this would put paid to any thoughts of development around the area.”