Plans to restore and repurpose the historic Ryelands House have taken a major step forward after Lancaster City Council agreed to lease the building to the North Lancashire Community Land Trust (NLCLT).

Subject to planning approval and the finalisation of Heads of Terms, the Grade II listed property will be leased to the not-for-profit, community-led organisation for an initial four-year period.

The move forms part of the council's efforts to safeguard the future of the landmark building, drawing on the Trust's experience in restoring and operating heritage assets for community use.

Councillor Tim Hamilton-Cox, cabinet member for finance and property, said: "The council's resources for repairs and maintenance are stretched over a wide portfolio of listed building assets and there has been no commercial interest in taking on Ryelands House.

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"Without intervention the property will deteriorate and remain vulnerable to anti-social behaviour. By working with the North Lancashire Community Land Trust we’re taking a proactive approach to preserving the building as a heritage asset, as a beloved feature of the park and as a location for community activities.

"NLCT has produced both an impressively thought-through long-term business plan and an initial, finely detailed two-year budget. They are a credit to the team behind the work."

Under the agreement, the initial lease period will allow NLCLT time to bring the building to a usable standard and secure funding for long-term restoration, with the intention of establishing a longer lease once those plans are in place.

The Trust will also launch a programme of community consultation, inviting local residents to help shape the building’s future. Feedback will be gathered through surveys, drop-in events and on-site engagement, with volunteering opportunities also being promoted for people wishing to take an active role in the project.