A RUNDOWN 19th century former school building has been recommended for demolition.

The Bradford Council-owned Priestthorpe Annex in Mornington Road, Bingley, has stood largely empty since 2002 and was gifted to the town for educational use by local benefactors in the 19th century and had been used as the town’s Science Arts and Technical School.

The Council is looking to sell the building and, following an inspection, say it is now “beyond economic repair”.

But the local authority has been criticised, with residents and local councillors claiming it has been left to decay.

The local authority suggested in a report to Bingley Town Council (BTC), which was discussed at a public meeting, that: “The building appears to be beyond economical repair and the recommendation is that it is demolished as soon as possible.

It adds the structure is in danger to anyone entering the building.

A number of complaints have been received from residents about the condition of the annex.

Ros Dawson, BTC chairman, spoke of her shock at the state the building has been left in.

She said: “The overwhelming message from the residents and business owners at the meeting was dismay at the way in which this once very valuable asset has been allowed to degenerate. People feel Bradford should deal positively with this building without delay and ensure that Bingley benefits from any sale proceeds.

“We have been pressing Bradford Council to be accountable for its building and to dispose of it responsibly with a definite plan for how the site is to be developed. When we received the report, we were shocked to discover just how bad a state this once magnificent building is now in and felt it was vital that residents, who have also been so angered and frustrated by the annexe’s increasing dilapidation, were put fully in the picture.”

Residents at the meeting also called on Bradford Council to tackle vermin, including rats and pigeons, inside the building. Bradford Council is looking for parties interested in the building, which must be lodged to them by the end of January.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s executive member for regeneration, planning and transport, said: “Removal of vegetation on the building has been arranged and we will investigate any other issues as a priority.

“A report to the Council’s Regulatory and Appeals panel has now been approved so we are marketing the site and the proceeds of its sale will fulfil the covenant on the building that it has to be used for educational purposes to the benefit of the people of Bingley.”

Meanwhile, BTC will now get resident’s views on the report and discuss them at its next meeting on Tuesday, November 28, at Crossflatts Community Centre.