AN eyesore three-storey town centre building branded a danger to passers-by is set to be bought by a council.

Senior Pendle councillors have been recommended to purchase Trafalgar House in Booth Street Nelson to make way for a new car park.

Chief executive Dean Langton tells the borough’s policy and resources committee in a report: “The building has historically and currently presents a risk to passers-by from injury or death caused by materials that may fall from the building.

“Damage to vehicles parked on Back Ellen Street and Booth Street may also be damaged by falling materials.”

Mr Langton reveals the owner is ready to sell for £350,000 to be paid for out of the Nelson Town Deal’s initial £750,000 government grant allocation.

He recommends the building be replaced by a car park.

Cllr Mohammed Iqbal, leader of Pendle Council, said: “This building has been a eyesore for about 10 years.

“We need new car parking in Nelson following the demolition of the multi-storey on Broadway.

“No decision has been taken on what the new provision will be. We need to buy it first and then consider what to put there.”

Mr Langton’s report to Thursday’s meeting says: “This item is to seek approval to acquire Trafalgar House, Nelson for demolition and subsequent construction of a town centre car park.

“This is to secure ownership for the council to enable it to halt the long term deterioration of the building and blight on surrounding properties in the town centre; to remove the risk of danger to passers-by and damage to vehicles from defective or damaged building fabric; and to consider options available in relation to retention, demolition and redevelopment."

Mr Langton reveals that before the coronavirus pandemic, the owner wanted £600,000 for the building but had now agreed to accept £350,000.