THE deputy prime minister will decide whether St James' Spire in Burnley town centre can be demolished.

John Prescott, who heads the department responsible for the environment, is considering the issue after Burnley council applied for listed building consent to knock down the 19th-century edifice.

There was strong opposition from local people when the council announced plans to clear the site to make way for a new shopping centre and car park.

Burnley MP Peter Pike, who is keeping in touch with Mr Prescott, said: "On balance I support the council's position but I have to forward objections received to the minister."

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