LEYLAND'S historic Tudor House could be transformed into a medical centre.

Health chiefs at Chorley and South Ribble Primary Care Trust are looking at the grade II listed building in Southern Towngate as a possible site to provide health care services.

The 18th century building, thought to have been known as Waterworths, was renovated six months ago by Tesco under plans to build their new Extra store.

Until that time, the former clothes shop and cafe, in the Leyland Cross conservation area, had stood empty for more than 10 years in a dilapidated state

The vacant building is just one of many in the recently renovated area. Despite inquiries, the newly-built retail units, next to Tesco, remain empty after nearly six months.

But local business leaders believe the properties' rents -- from £12,250 to £17,600 a year -- are too high for many small businesses. In Hough Lane a similar property would be let for about £10,000 over the same period.

David Sukert, of Sukert's Chemist, Towngate, said: "It could be the rents that are putting people off. They may be too high to attract small trades."

Councillor Jim Breakell, chairman of South Ribble Business Venture, said the group considered partnering with Tesco to lease the businesses, but found the rents too high for it to be profitable.

He said: "To open up a shop with Tesco around the corner would be very difficult."

Tesco corporate affairs manager, Shaun Edgeley, said although the supermarket giant had turned away several offers, including a pub chain, an estate agents and video rental outlet could be opening on the site soon.