BUSINESSES next to a historic Colne building have been left with major damage following the storms last week, councillors said.

Shackleton Hall, Church Street, was bought by Downs Court Properties in August, but is now facing criticism for failing to get on with vital repair work.

Councillor Howard Thomas said the "eyesore" Victorian building had been deteriorating for several years but its condition was now alarming.

He claims the glass roof is dangerous, with glass falling into the back yard of the Derby Arms pub, while the motor sales shop has rainwater streaming into it through structural faults.

Mohammed Tahir, owner of Cheshire-based Downs Court Properties, has said he wants to get on with restoring the building to its former glory, but that he is being thwarted by Pendle Council's planning process.

Last month, he called on the council to contribute £250,000 towards the £1.4 million package of improvements he has planned.

But Coun Thomas said Mr Tahir had gone back on a promise made during discussions in September that firm proposals would be put forward by the end of 2006, and that he risks having a listed building repairs notice - which was lifted after that meeting - slapped back on the site.

This would force Downs Court Properties to get on with the work or face tough penalties.

Councillor Dorothy Lord said: "It is awful that the owners are doing nothing to stop the wind and water damaging this fine building and I hate to think what is happening to other parts of the building which are out of sight.

"The new owners bought the building with their eyes open and it is time they started to fulfil the promises they made."