PLANS to refurbish Queens Hall in Burley-in-Wharfedale have been approved by Bradford Council planning officers.

The work will include replacement windows and the addition of a single storey extension to the north side to provide a new entrance, lobby and multi-purpose store room.

Burley-in-Wharfedale Parish Council has already issued the preliminary tender package for the work to be undertaken on both the village library and Queens Hall, and two of the four tender respondents have now progressed to the next stage.

A Parish Council spokesman said: “Bowman Riley, our architects, are working with both building firms to complete their analysis of the submissions.

“A firm recommendation is now due in December, along with a proposed programme of works that will identify the items of expenditure planned for both buildings.

“Until this is complete, no endorsement of the tender proposals can be confirmed. Previous timescales look to have been optimistic and it is now likely that work will start in spring 2019. A full timetable of the refurbishment programme will be issued once the tender process has been completed.

“One key item of expenditure will be VAT since some (but not all) building work will be claimable against VAT. Professional advice is being sought on the matter.

“For the work planned on the library no planning permission is needed as the work is very simple – primarily over-roofing, new windows, creation of a disabled toilet and a new kitchen.”

Burley Parish Council has also agreed to a 99 year lease of The Round House from Bradford Council and has decided to refurbish the Grade II listed building which was originally built as a gazebo within the grounds of Burley Grange

A Parish Council spokesman added: “The costs are likely to be around £22,000. To help meet these costs, back in September the Parish Council submitted a grant bid to National Lottery Awards for All for £10,000. Subject to this award, the Parish Council have agreed to fund the difference in costs for the refurbishment. As part of the refurbishment, Burley Community Trust and Burley Gardeners have agreed to contribute up to £500 each towards improvements to the Round House Garden

“The Parish Council also wish to see a drinking water fountain by the Round House, and so have approached three funding bodies to cover the costs. There has been no luck yet, but more funding bids are planned.”