QUESTION marks have been raised about the future of a Pendle town hall after a damning assessment by councillors.

Brierfield Town Hall has been condemned for ‘poor access’ for the disabled and its ‘unwelcoming appearance’ by a panel who examined Pendle’s five council offices.

And in the conclusion to the review, led by Coun Philip Boyle, it said: “The availability of alternative accommodation within the town, the relatively low levels of usage, and the proximity to the main contact point in Nelson must put into question its continued use.”

The panel also stated: “We were most concerned about the poor access to Brierfield office.

“The unwelcoming appearance, limited space for viewing plans and lack of private interview space do little to make the premises any more user friendly.”

Split-site arrangements at Nelson, forcing people to visit the town hall for planning enquiries and Elliott House for licensing matters, was criticised.

Cramped conditions at Colne Town Hall and the appearance of Barnoldswick’s council shop were also criticised.