ST HELENS Council says it will be involved in any future sale of Mansion House as it holds a restrictive covenant on the building.

The local authority added that it, and Mansion House owners Age UK, are keen to ensure any future use of the building "is in keeping with the character of its surroundings and the wider community use".

The building, in Victoria Park, has been the headquarters of Age UK Mid Mersey since 1993.

The independent charity that helps local older people, announced it has "reluctantly" decided to sell The Mansion House.

The building has been been home to day centre sessions and activity classes as well as the base for befriending and helping hands services.

Its trading activities have included the Victoria Bistro, weddings and events and corporate room hire, and as host of the annual Mansion House Beer Festival.

Sitting on Cowley Hill in the heart of Victoria Park, the Mansion House is steeped in history, and, built around 1849 by the late gentleman solicitor John Ansdell, has become an iconic building in the town.

Residents expressed sadness at the news of its upcoming sale.

Some had questioned whether the building could be placed on the market by the charity.

St Helens Council says it holds the benefit of a restrictive covenant which was imposed in the original sale in 1993, which ensures the council will be involved in any future sale.

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Cllr Richard McCauley, St Helens Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and planning, said: “Positive discussions have taken place with Age UK about their proposed sale of the historic Mansion House and we are both keen to ensure that any future use of the building is in keeping with the character of its surroundings and the wider community use.

"The council holds the benefit of a restrictive covenant which was imposed on the property in the original sale to Age UK, meaning we’ll be involved in any future sale and use of the building.

“The Mansion House is an impressive building which I am sure will generate significant interest for alternative uses.

"As a council we will support the owners and any prospective buyers to ensure that the future use of the building is appropriate, recognising that this sale will allow Age UK to continue its invaluable charitable work for the benefit of our older residents.”

An Age UK spokesperson said: "The building is owned by Age UK Mid Mersey.

"The Mansion House was derelict for 11 years before Age Concern (now Age UK) Mid Mersey purchased it in 1993 from St Helens Borough Council and invested in bringing it back to life, with the help of various grants over the years.

"We share the council's commitment to ensuring that the covenants attached to the property are upheld.

"Aside from these covenants there are no other restrictions preventing the charity from selling the house."