FIVE historic buildings, four of which are located in Heaton Park face a threat to their future.

For they are deemed to be "at risk" in a new report published by English Heritage. They are the Grand Lodge, Heaton Hall, Smithy Lodge and the Temple. Lower Chesham Hall in Bell Lane, Bury, is also said to be at risk.

All five buildings are included in English Heritage's 2001 Register of Buildings at Risk which details the nation's most important historic buildings threatened by neglect and decay. The condition of Heaton Park's Grand Lodge, built in 1807, is said to be poor and subject to vandalism as is Heaton Hall.

But the good news for the neo-classical country house, built in 1772 and now used as a museum, is that urgent works have now completed and a conservation plan is currently being prepared.

The condition of the park's Smithy Lodge -- once used as a craft shop but now empty -- is described as fair. But the octagonal stone lodge built in 1806 is vulnerable to vandalism.

Meanwhile, the circular Temple is said to be in poor condition and has been attacked by dry rot. The report states further repairs are about to begin but the building will still be vulnerable to vandalism when it reopens to the public.

The register says the privately-owned Lower Chesham Hall, built in 1713, is a listed Grade 11 building. The property is occupied and its condition is described as "fair".

According to the document, some repairs are being carried out although general maintenance work is still required.