CONCERN has been expressed by councillors in Colne about the dilapidated condition of one of the town's large listed buildings -- Shackleton Hall.

A report to the Colne and District Committee stated that the building, which is in the town centre and the Albert Road Conservation Area, was in a poor state with little action being taken by the owner to remedy the situation. Planning manager Andy Wiggett said: "Nevertheless, Shackleton Hall has potential to regenerate this part of the town centre because of its prominent location, architectural qualities and relatively large floor area. The council should therefore seek the repair and use of the building."

The report focused on the building's conditions and proposed that a structural and dilapidation survey be undertaken as a means of moving the matter forward and requested a supplementary estimate of £2,500 to pay for this. Colne Town Centre was enhanced considerably between 1995 and 1998 through conservation partnership with the council, English Heritage and Pendle Partnership.

Shackleton Hall was a prime target but the repair of the building was unsuccessful. Some improvements were made to the front of the building through small grants and shops on the ground floor are still occupied but empty upper floors and rear parts of the building are in a very poor condition.

Members of the executive have been recommended to approve the dilapidation survey with a view to encouraging the repair of the building.