AN historic listed building in Blackburn that costs more than £20,000 a year to maintain is up for sale to generate some money for the cash-strapped council.

Griffin Lodge and its coach house, in Griffin Park, are back on the market for a second time in 12 months.

Blackburn with Darwen Council will seek assurances that it will be developed with consideration to the surroundings, which include a children’s play area.

The council last week announced it was selling off 377 items as part of its £33million savings plan.

Offers for the multi-million property are now being invited, although no specific price-tag has been put on the building.

Griffin Lodge, Spring Lane, Blackburn, is in a conservation area and stands at the centre of Griffin Park.

The early 1800s mansion has stood empty since July 2006 when it was last used as offices and a storage area for the North West Museums and Art Gallery Service.

The coach house has been empty for more than a decade and the council has tried to sell the site since the mid-1990s.

The site would require around £600,000 to restore.

Blackburn Local History Society chair Ray Smith said: “We would like somebody to take it over and utilise it.

"It is an important part of the town’s history. It belonged to the Dugdale family who are an important part of Blackburn’s history.

“This building is like a lot of buildings in Blackburn and it is an ongoing worry.

"I can’t see the council has any other option but to sell it.

“The building is suitable for luxury flats which would keep the property intact and maintained.”

Coun Andy Kay, executive member for resources at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “Griffin Lodge is a listed building and has been vacant for many years.

“The condition of the building is deteriorating and the council has a obligation to keep paying for maintenance and repairs - with the current financial situation facing the council, we can no longer afford to do so.

“While it remains empty, it's condition will continue to get worse, it is at risk of vandalism and costs to the council will continue to rise.”