RESIDENTS living near an historic house which is due to be demolished, are calling for it to be saved.

The building (pictured), at 97 Lower Bank Road, in Fulwood, is due to be bulldozed to be replaced with a new property, complete with prayer room.

The house, which is in a conservation area, is currently boarded up and derelict. But neighbours claim the owners have allowed it to fall into disrepair intentionally, so that it can be demolished.

Local resident Charles Blackburn said: "This is part of Fulwood's heritage. Despite there having been a fire in the building several years ago, it can be repaired. But instead it has been allowed to fall apart.

"Other rundown houses on the street have been improved and have even won awards. The same could happen here."

The house features on pictures in several local history books, and sits at the top of Plum Pudding Hill.

The house is also in part of the Watling Street Road Conservation Area, a status which is awarded to preserve the character of an area.

Charles added: "It has to be asked what is the point of having a conservation area when the planning department is taking no steps to preserve it.

"The proposed new building will also be set back from the road, putting it in a position where it will interfere with people's light and privacy."

Coun Michael Moulding, who is fighting the case on behalf of the residents, said he has asked English Heritage to get involved He said: "This is an historic building which should not be destroyed.

"It would be much better if it could be repaired to its former glory. It has played a part in Preston's history."

A council spokesman said: "The building has been derelict for some time. As it is part of the Conservation Area, we believe that only a building of the highest quality and design should be allowed to be built on this site, which is what the plans show."

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