Future of under-threat pub building to be decided

The Tithebarn, which closed in 2016, was deemed beyond repair in a council survey

The future of a derelict former pub building in Preston city centre is expected to be decided later.

The Tithebarn, which closed in 2016, was deemed beyond repair after a structural survey by the council.

A heritage campaign group is seeking to take over the building on Lord Street, which is thought to be about 300 years old, to save it from demolition.

But the council has applied for permission to demolish it while preserving the Grade II listed mill building next door, formerly known as Aladdin's Cove warehouse. The proposal includes turning the site into an open public greenspace.

Heritage centre

The authority's task force, which monitors empty and derelict buildings in the city amid growing concerns around safety, said there had been "extensive deterioration" to the building.

A report to the council ahead of a cabinet meeting said: "Whilst the building is secure, it is in a dangerous condition and the council, as the owner, must consider the future of the building taking into consideration the safety of the public."

The authority is set to approve its demolition at a cost of £200,000.

The Preserving Preston Heritage group had offered to take it over and turn it into a heritage centre.

However, the council said their proposal relied on grant funding which has not been applied for and a green space in the area would have "a significant benefit" in enhancing the area.