A community leader has voiced his hope that a landmark west Suffolk building is restored from its derelict state after it was revealed that it will go under the hammer this year.
Haverhill Corn Exchange, in Withersfield Road, will be auctioned off by Auction House East Anglia in November with a guide price of £150,000 to £200,000.
The Grade II-listed freehold property, which was last used as a community hall and was granted permission to become a restaurant or bar in 2007, is described as "an excellent redevelopment opportunity".
Joe Mason, who represents Haverhill Cangle on Suffolk County Council, said: “The Corn Exchange on Withersfield Road is an important part of Haverhill’s heritage.
"It is appalling that the previous owners have allowed the building to remain unused, have little or no meaningful work done and leave it in a derelict state for so long.
"It is high time we have someone take on this building who can restore it to its former glory."
The iconic building is around 2,300 sq ft with a 700 sq ft basement, and boasts a ceiling height of 30 ft.
In 2017, then-St Edmundsbury Borough Council stepped in to prevent the Corn Exchange from falling into further disrepair with an urgent works notice served to the owners.
Mr Mason added: "The people of Haverhill are immensely fond of this building and I have had many enquiries over the years to see what could be done.
"I am pleased that it has come up for auction. Whoever takes this on must now treat it with the care and respect it deserves, so that we can all enjoy it for many years to come."
The Auction House East Anglia auction will be livestreamed on November 1 at 11am.
Prospective buyers wishing to visit Corn Exchange should call Auction House East Anglia on 01473 558 888 to arrange a viewing.
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