It is an unsafe eyesore that must come down.
That is East Ayrshire Council’s verdict on a rotting building which is too dangerous to enter in Darvel.
The historic ‘band hall’ is owned by the local authority and sits in the conservation area of the market town.
Now council bosses want to knock it down because it would cost the public purse too much to renovate.
An application has been lodged for permission to raze the site.
The detached building, which dates back to 1904, is located on the edge of Morton Park in the town.
Even though it is called the band hall, one theory suggests it is a B-listed former fish farm.
It could also be linked to the Brown’s Institute – one of a number of education facilities provided by Martha Brown of the Lanfine estate.
It has been written off as offering no potential for commercial development.
A demolition justification statement said the roof needs replaced and a full strip back to the shell is needed.
The document said it is not economically viable to renovate the property and find a suitable use for it.
The statement prepared by Wylie Shanks Architects for the council added: “In its current state it is also detracting from the general appearance of the conservation area.”
Water has been entering the building and the flooring is warped according to the architects.
The council has also taken action to demolish the former Co-op building in the town.
A garden and market place is to replace the building.
