A TOWN hall is set to undergo repairs to ensure it remains an iconic figure on its skyline.

Burnley Borough Council has lodged plans to repair the roof, including replacing flue, repair to roof cladding of clock tower mechanism and lift shaft and redecoration of windows in light well.

The Renaissance-style Grade II-listed building was opened in 1888 on Manchester Road, built from sandstone with a central octagonal clock tower with a copper dome.

The railings around the wrought iron railings around the basement are part of the listing.

The town hall used to house Burnley's police station and courts, including cells, but now is used exclusively for the town's council.

Planning documents say that the works are part of essential maintenance to the flue system and gas hot water boilers, while two chimney stacks will be reduced in height.

The clock tower will be repointed, have the rotting timber work replaced and the copper cladding refurbished.

The roof will also undergo some essential maintenance, which will be matched with blue slate that is already on the building.

Cllr Gordon Birtwistle, leader of the liberal democrats on the council, said: “This is such an iconic building on Burnley’s skyline and it needs to be properly maintained.

“It needs the work doing to it so I am pleased the council have decided to repair the bits which need looking at.

“It’s the people of Burnley’s building so we need to do our bit to make sure it can provide its services and functions properly.”

A Burnley Council spokesman said: "Burnley Town Hall is a historic, landmark building that is an iconic part of the town centre landscape. Like any other building of its age, it needs repairing from time to time.

"These are essential works undertaken as part of routine maintenance to an almost 130-year-old Grade II listed building that will help prevent further damage from occurring."