CONCERN is growing about the ‘terrible state’ of the Royal George ballroom after it was opened up to the public for the first time in two decades.

The former dance hall, which sits on the first floor of the historic Royal George Hotel in Regent Street, was opened for the first time in years on Friday, September 9 for a performance by Knutsford choir Wax Lyrical.

Hordes of people turned up for the performance, which was part of the Heritage Open Days, organised by the Knutsford Promenades.

Although the performance was well received, the session left guests wondering about why the rooms have been left to fall into ruin.

Val Dawson, Knutsford resident and member of the Knutsford Heritage Centre, said: “I was shattered when I saw it. I haven’t been in there in many many years.

“So many people in Knutsford were shocked by the condition and wondered why it had been left to go as bad as that.

“It’s depressing. It could be such a lovely asset to the town. I am very concerned about eh state of some of the old buildings in Knutsford. It’s very important for the town to keep these buildings.

Knutsford Town Council has contacted the agent of all properties in Regent Street, Fisher German, who advised that the space is currently being let out to a tenant.

The council understands that the tenant is Individual Restaurants, which when contacted by the Guardian has not commented. Individual Restaurants also owns Piccolino in King Street.

Adam Keppel-Garner, town clerk, said: “It was fantastic to see the Ballroom opened as part of the Heritage Open Days and I know visitors were delighted to visit this historic building. The Town Council would love to see a scheme put forward bringing this area back to its former glory, just as we have seen recently at the Old Town Hall and Sessions House.”

Another resident who attended the concert has suggested that Historic England should be informed of the state of the building so that they can step in.

“The building belongs to the company,” said the resident, who wishes to remain anonymous. “It’s their property. Although we see it as a terrible state there is nothing we can make them do.”

“Historic England need to be informed of its condition.”