A GRADE II listed building in Blackburn that has been targeted by arsonists and vandals could be set for a makeover.

Blackburn with Darwen leader, Cllr Mohammed Khan, said the authority was working with a public partner to maintain Griffin Lodge and Coach House, Cavendish Place, and “develop it for the benefit of the local population”.

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Cllr Khan said a funding bid had been put in for the historic building, which was targeted by arsonists in October 2013 and January 2014, and said they were waiting for the results of that before they could move forward.

Cllr Khan said: “Initial works on the lodge were completed earlier this year to remove fire damaged materials and make safe dangerous parts of the building.

"This was to enable the building to be safely inspected internally and survey work to be carried out to aid subsequent design. In addition we have also carried out minor works to roof of the stables given its location immediately adjacent to the highway.

“The council is currently working with a public sector partner with a view to maintaining the listed status of the property and developing a facility on the site for the benefit of the local population. They are currently awaiting the outcome of a funding bid.”

The response came on the back of a question raised by John Hall from Redlam Residents’ Association at a meeting of the council’s executive board.

Mr Hall said: “As a local resident for nearly 30 years I am concerned like others in the area what the council’s future plan is for Griffin Lodge.

“Griffin Lodge is a Grade II listed building built by the Dugdale family in 1824 at the height of Blackburn as a Cotton town.

“It was last occupied in 2006 and as a result of inertia from the council it has deteriorated into its present state as a result of vandalism, false economies, such as switching off the boiler at the time, resulting in dry rot, and more recently arson attacks in October 2013 and January 2014.

“I would like to suggest that it maybe of interest to the University of Blackburn in providing student accommodation to attract foreign students and a conference centre such as UCLan’s Westleigh House in Preston.”

No date has been set for the work to start.