Makeover for manor

Work on one of the oldest buildings in Bingham is due to start shortly, it can be revealed.

There had been concern about the state of the Manor House, Market Place, for some time and Rushcliffe Borough Council considered buying it to save it from further decay.

But the council confirmed this week that the owner of the building and adjoining cottage has appointed a contractor to carry out repairs and intends to bring it back into use.

The council’s development control manager, Mr Andrew Pegram, said: “A contractor has now been appointed by the owner to make the building weatherproof, structurally sound, and to prevent further deterioration. The works are due to start very shortly.

“The owner has been in discussion with the council about potential uses for the building. However, at the present moment, no application has been submitted.”

He said the council was pleased the owner was taking action.

The building, thought to have been built in around 1700, was an antiques shop for many years. The neighbouring cottage was added at a later date.

It has been empty for around nine years and has been targeted by vandals. It is on the council’s at-risk register.

The council considered using a compulsary purchase order to buy the building last year.

It has carried out numerous work over the years, including boarding up windows and doors, and obtained a court order to recover costs of around £4,700.

Mr Pegram said the council would not pursue the compulsory purchase order while the owner was taking action to improve the building’s condition.

“However, this situation will be kept under review and closely monitored,” he said.

“When the work specified in the listed buildings repair notice has been satisfactorily completed, the borough council would recommend that the building is removed from the register.”