A HOUSE built by an influential architect has come one step closer to demolition after a government agency said it would not be protected.

Developers want to replace the 1928 house in Traps Hill, Loughton, with a three-storey mock Tudor dwelling.

The house was designed by architect Sir Frank Baines, known for drawing up the plans for the MI5 headquarters in Millbank, central London.

Chris Pond of the Loughton and District Historical Society said: “Sir Frank was one of the most influential Arts and Crafts architects in the first part of the 20th century.

“There are three houses he designed in Loughton – both 29 and 31 Traps Hill were designed by him for himself and his brother. There’s also one in Uplands.

“I think the association of Baines with Loughton was enough to warrant their preservation.”

Sue Taylor, of the Loughton-based Herts and Essex Architectural Society, said: “My personal view is that we need to preserve our historical buildings.

“There are very few Arts and Crafts buildings left in the area.”

Loughton Town Council asked English Heritage to list the building, meaning it would have extra legal protection against demolition.

But Gaynor Roberts, designation co-ordinator for the body, said in a report: “The house lacks the architectural interest and imaginative design exemplified by listed examples.”

She added that the two-storey extension was detrimental to the rest of the design.

Campaigners are now hoping the home’s inclusion on Epping Forest District Council’s local list will save it, although this does not give as much protection as national listing.

District council planners are considering whether the demolition can go ahead.

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