Major Fylde Council update on future of iconic Grade II listed Lytham Assembly Rooms amid £1m investment
“The right thing to do for the community and for the building’s future.”
Lytham Assembly Rooms, home to Lytham Library, is set to remain in the hands of the community that has cared for it for decades.
The update came after Fylde Council's Executive Committee gave its backing in principle to transfer the freehold of the historic and much-loved building to Lytham Town Trust on Tuesday 15 September.
The Grade II listed building on Dicconson Terrace has been a fixture of Lytham life since 1928, when it opened with its seawater baths, sprung-floored ballroom, "Little Theatre" and café. Today, alongside the library, it remains a vibrant hub for talks, fairs, classes and community events, run by Lytham Town Trust under a long lease from Fylde Council.
‘Outstanding custodian’
Councillor Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council, said: “Lytham Town Trust has been an outstanding custodian of this special building for years, and residents can see that in every corner of it. Supporting their long-term stewardship is the right thing to do for the community and for the building’s future.”
The Trust, a registered charity, has invested over £400,000 into repairs and improvements over the past decade, and is currently investing a further £500,000 in repointing the building and upgrading its rear car park.
With a £100,000 roof replacement also on the horizon, the Trust asked the council to transfer the freehold rather than contribute to costs – an offer that would see it cover all reasonable legal and surveyor fees itself.
Committee members have agreed to proceed subject to a full disposal plan, valuation and legal due diligence, with a further report expected once that work is complete.