A HISTORIC former pub could be taken over by Pendle Council to stop it falling into ruin.

The former Herders Inn, which sits high above Colne and Trawden in Lancashire Moor Road over the Pennines to Haworth has been empty for eight years.

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Now borough officials have been asked to prepare a report identifying it as a ‘problem site’ so the council can take action to ensure its repair and maintenance.

After the Grade II listed building dating from the 1700s closed as a pub it was split into two and one part turned into a home, which is now occupied.

In 2013 it was offered for sale initially at £150,000 and then at auction by Huddersfield chartered surveyors Walker Singleton as a ‘derelict public house with paddock’ but failed to sell.

Now a report is being prepared for the Colne and District Committee of Pendle Council at the request of Liberal Democrat leader Tony Greaves.

He has the full support of Boulsworth Tory councillor Paul White whose family owned the pub 30 years ago but no longer have any interest in the premises.

The building, formerly the Oldham Arms, was converted into an inn in 1860. It was on what was the main trading route between Bronte Country and East Lancashire and is steeped in history.

In more recent years the pub became popular with hikers who enjoyed the spectacular views across Lancashire as well as the nearby Watersheddles Reservoir.

Lord Greaves said: “This Grade II listed building is in danger of turning into a ruin if action is not taken to rescue it.

“This used to be a popular hostelry and a historic meeting point on the Haworth Road from Colne.

“The adjacent house has been renovated but the former pub is in a shocking state.”

The report will go to the committee in April or May and if the Herders is added to the list of ‘problem sites’, the council can take actions including renovating the building itself and billing the owners or seeking a Compulsory Purchase Order.

Cllr White said: “It is a historic building on the gateway from Yorkshire into Pendle with connections with the Brontes and the Lancashire Witches.

“It is an eyesore and I fully support Tony as it could be a very attractive building on the way into the borough, although probably not a pub.”

The Lancashire Telegraph attempted to contact the owners through Walker Singleton but they did not respond.