A FIRE-DAMAGED former Darwen bar is to be demolished after becoming a “dangerous” town centre eyesore.

Franky’s Bar in Church Street was set alight by arsonists in November 2012, and has since been left derelict.

Council contractors carried out initial works to make the building safe, but fresh concerns were raised earlier this year when bits of the roof fell on to the pavement below, damaging a car.

The bar, formerly Darwen Central Conservative Club, was bought at auction earlier this year by a Hong Kong-based businessman, called Mr Pang.

And council bosses have confirmed that after a structural engineer was sent to the site by the new owner, the decision has been made to flatten it.

Blackburn with Darwen Council executive member for regeneration Councillor Maureen Bateson said: “The council is working with the owner of the former Franky’s Bar site as they begin the process to demolish the fire-damaged building, and we will look to help them progress this work as soon as possible.

“This will ensure the site is made safe in the short term but with a view to considering new uses for the site in the medium term.”

Darwen MP Jake Berry welcomed the news.

He said: “I am really pleased the owners have listened to the people of Darwen and are taking action over this dangerous structure.

“This is a great opportunity to continue the regeneration of Darwen town centre.”

Councillor Brian Taylor said: “I have been really concerned about it, especially this week with the high winds.

“Heaven forbid something falls off and hits somebody on the head.

“It remains to be seen what happens to it after the building has been demolished but hopefully it will be something tidy.”

Labour’s prospective parliamentary candidate for Darwen, Will Straw, said: “Over two years since the fire that ruined the building and caused so much disruption in the town centre, it is a relief for everyone that the former Franky’s Bar building is being demolished.

“Nonetheless, it is critical that disruption is kept to a minimum while the works take place and that the owners ensure that what replaces it is in keeping with the conservation area with as much original material as possible preserved for re-use.”