Magistrates have fined the owners of a listed building in Elsenham for taking the character out of the property.

Robert Taylor and Kaye Marshall removed and destroyed the historic staircase of their grade II listed home in Tye Green, before replacing it with a modern spiral staircase.

An enforcement officer visited the property in October last year after receiving a tip-off from a member of public. The officer found the windows were replaced with double glazing and creating an opening of a central chimney breast between two historic bays to form an open-plan aspect.

Chelmsford magistrates heard on May 4 the alterations impacted the cottage’s character as a building of special architectural or historic interest. The UDC conservation officer added the work would have required listed building consent and it was unlikely it would have been given.

Taylor and Marshall admitted carrying out unauthorised works to the property and were each fined £6,000 and ordered to pay costs of £763 and £120 victim surcharge each.

Councillor Derek Jones, the lead member for enforcement at UDC, said: “It is a serious offence to carry out unauthorised works on a listed building.

“I hope this successful case serves as a reminder that the council will not hesitate to take the appropriate action against those who breach the planning regulations.”