CRAVEN District Council could be facing a hefty bill to replace the roof at Skipton Town Hall.

Officers are currently having surveys and costings undertaken ahead of a report to councillors.

It follows a persistent leak in the ceiling of the upstairs council chamber, which despite being repaired, has continued to be a major problem.

But Craven District Council's director of services, Paul Ellis, said necessary repairs to the listed building were not a surprise.

“We have always recognised that roof repairs and, potentially, a new roof at the town hall will be required at some point," he added.

The council is currently in negotiations with a restaurant to use part of the building and next door 17-19 High Street, and has signed a lease with Skipton Town Council for the entire first floor.

Mr Ellis added: "Our drive to let some sections of the hall on a commercial basis has been so we can afford to invest in the long-term upkeep of the building, including the roof.

"We are currently carrying out surveys and costing works on the roof, which once complete, will then inform a request to councillors for capital expenditure.”

Cllr Chris Harbron (Cons), a member of the district council and leader of Skipton Town Council, said from the state of the ceiling in the council chamber, it was clear repairs needed to be made.

He added: "The ornate ceiling in the council chamber is suffering – something clearly needs doing. I will be interested to see the results of the survey."

Craven District Council is currently waiting for decisions on two major applications for funding.

It was awarded an initial grant of £98,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund last October, paving the way for a full £1.4 million grant, which, if successful, will be awarded in about two years' time. It also applied in November for Arts Council funding of £250,000 towards the refurbishment of the main hall.