WORK has finally begun on restoring an iconic Burnley building.

The old County Court, at the corner of Bankhouse Street and Curzon Street, was bought at auction for £160,000 last year.

Neil Bradbury, of Avalon Developments, said he wanted to convert the landmark into luxury apartments.

Scaffolding has now been erected around the 106-year-old structure and work has started on repairing the roof.

Mr Bradbury said most of the original brickwork remained, alongside the wooden beamed ceiling, staircases and a Royal coat of arms above the main doors.

Inside a courtyard will be created.

The 1908 courthouse was built on the site of Bankhouse, from which the area once took its name, and cost £8,000 to construct.