RAMSBOTTOM'S Civic Hall could be axed under controversial cost-cutting plans.

The move is being considered as Bury Metro Council battles to make cuts, blaming a poor block grant from the government.

Council officials, and deputy council leader Mike Connolly, spelled out the financial position at a series of council roadshows held across the borough last week.

At last night's executive meeting, in Bury Town Hall, Coun Connolly said the option was still on the table.

The ruling Labour group said that even with a 5per cent council tax increase, the maximum allowed to prevent government capping, they would still have to make £9.7millon cuts to balance the books.

Opposition leader, Conservative councillor Bob Bibby, said: "Ramsbottom Civic Hall is an asset to the town and used by many people.

"The upstairs has been unused since the town's Masonic lodge left it 20 odd years ago, and there is also a flat attached to it. Surely the council can do more to get revenue from it if it tried."

A council official said the upstairs needed upgrading and did not comply with current health and safety regulations.

No final decision will be taken until a full council meeting on February 22.