COUNCILLORS are set to hold talks about the future of Padiham Town Hall which could see own-ership of the historic building change hands.

As part of a review of the building's future a raft of proposals have been discussed by Burnley Council's executive which will see: l Office space rented out to businesses and community groups l Plans for a one-stop shop' in the buildings being scrapped l £150,000 spent on improving disabled access and security l The possibility of Burnley Council allowing another party to take over ownership of Padiham Town Hall.

Currently Padiham Town Council leases the building from the borough council on a long-term £1-a-year lease. However, Burnley still spends £64,000 a year on maintenance.

The town council and Padiham Life, the regeneration group, use the building, but much of it is empty.

Now offices will be leased and talks held between the two authorities and Padiham Life about the future management of the building.

Burnley Council's executive member for resources, Coun Peter Doyle said: "This is an issue which has been discussed by many people. One of the difficulties here is that is costs this council £64,000 a year to maintain and run it.

"We just cannot pay this sort of money and leave the building empty."

Plans to open a one-stop shop in the building, similar to Contact Burnley, were shelved after software problems at the Burnley centre. Burnley Council also ruled it would cost too much and there would not be enough demand.

Burnley Council will now continue to work with the county council to provide information, internet access and a free phone to access council services in Padiham Library.