WORK is under way to transform a historic Burnley landmark which dates back to the 15th century.

Planning permission was granted to convert Grade II listed Holme Hall, in Burnley Road into 10 apartments in February.

The developers, Berkshire Homes based in Haslingden, have until the end of June to carry out work on pre-commitment conditions before work on the restoration can begin.

This includes ensuring that the building is structurally stable and carrying out an archaeological recording of the site.

Despite Burnley Council saying that they are happy with the work carried out by developers, Historic England, formerly English Heritage, say that progress has been slow and historical parts of the building have been demolished.

Cathy Tuck, Historic England heritage at risk projects officer for the North West, said the building was in the top eight per cent of nationally important historic buildings in the country.

She said: “When the current owner, a property developer, bought The Holme, which has been renamed Holme Hall, two years ago Historic England were optimistic that there was still time to save what remained of the historic building, through a rapid but sympathetically done restoration.

“Notwithstanding our sustained efforts over the past two years, Historic England have been disappointed with the slow progress made on site.

“We were particularly disappointed to discover one day that a series of internal walls, sadly in the oldest part of the building dating to the late 1500s-early 1600s, had been the subject of unauthorised demolition.

A spokesman for Burnley Council said: “As far as Burnley Council is concerned, we are satisfied that the developers are doing everything required to ensure work can start during the summer.”

Holme Hall changed hands for £151,000 at a Manchester auction in 2013.

Once the premises closed as a retirement home in 2003, it was devastated by an arson attack the following year.

The Lancashire Telegraph contacted Berkshire Homes however the company declined to comment.