SUPPORTERS of Ilkley’s Manor House Museum have condemned plans by Bradford Council to sell off the historic treasure.

MP Kris Hopkins labelled the plans “scandalous”, and local figures are lobbying Council Leader, David Green, stressing that the Grade I listed building on Castle Yard was given to the people of the town.

Artefacts including pieces of Wharfedale heritage donated by residents are already said to be in the process of being moved to storage in Bradford.

But others involved in behind-the-scenes discussions with Bradford Council and other parties believe a notice to dispose of the building could be the first step in transferring the museum to community management.

The museum, part of which dates back to the later medieval period, stands on the site of Ilkley’s Roman fort.

The building was handed over to the town more than 50 years ago by benefactor Percy Dalton, and saved from dereliction thanks to the efforts of townspeople.

The Council previously said it intended to transfer the running of the museum to a community management scheme in the next financial year, and paid for a feasibility study to look at future uses. But officers have now indicated that the Council intends to sell or dispose of the mu- Continued on page two Continued from page one seum.

Ilkley’s MP Kris Hopkins spoke of his outrage, claiming the decision to sell is politically motivated.

He said: “The Manor House Museum must be retained for generations to come, not disposed of by a narrow-minded band of politically-motivated Labour councillors who have no understanding of Ilkley nor any desire to learn.

“The building is a piece of living history and should not be flogged off like a second-hand car. This scandalous decision must not stand.”

Ilkley Parish Council and Ilkley Civic Society are also making representations to Bradford Council. But some offered hope for the future of the museum.

Parish councillor Brian Mann, who has been in talks over the past year, told parish councillors on Monday a feasibility study on the future of the building is complete, and three options have been identified for its future.

And chairman of the New Manor House Group, Ruth Pitt, believes the notice issued last week is simply part of a formal transfer of the Manor House to potential community use – although she admits she believes the building could be put on the market if current options fail.

She said: “There are, I think, some really exciting options for the future.”

She believes fears over imminent sale of the building will not be realised, adding: “It’s not going to become a McDonald’s.”

A Bradford Council spokesman said: “Bradford Council has invested time and money in making sure that the Manor House has a sustainable future and will continue to work constructively with community groups and interested partners to find the best solution.

“This latest notice is part of an administrative process but does not change the Council’s commitment to supporting local people in finding a viable future for the Manor House as an important part of Ilkley’s cultural landscape.”