ACCRINGTON'S historic former fire station is due to go under the hammer to be sold to the highest bidder.

The grade two listed building, next door to Hyndburn Magistrates' Court and the police station, closed more than a decade ago as firefighters moved into their new £1.7million building on Hyndburn Road.

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Accrington police were originally linked with a move into the building, to expand their operation, while plans were later submitted to convert it into a restaurant, car showroom, or even an auction house.

The building, erected in 1933 and owned by the fire service, will be sold on Thursday, December 4 through North West-based Pugh and Company at an auction at Manchester City's Etihad Stadium.

It is expected to fetch between £190,000 and £200,000.

When built, the fire station was part of a complex costing £86,000 which included the police station, courts, offices, 12 homes for firemen, a mortuary and post mortem block.

The building set to be sold features a main garage on the ground floor designed to fit five fire engines, along with six offices, lounge, dining room, kitchen, showers and toilet.

On the first floor there are changing rooms, a recreation room, office, two store rooms and a toilet.

At the rear of the building there is parking for more than 20 cars, a drill tower with outbuildings and garages.

In its lot guide ahead of the auction, Pugh Auctions said: "The property received planning consent on August 31, 2006 for a change of use and erection of new buildings to form six residential units, six office units, car showroom and restaurant.

"We understand from the vendors that this planning consent has been commenced and that the planning consent is therefore extant.

"Interested parties should consult with the local planning office."

It is thought the planning permission was sought by Bolton company Holdchase Ltd to make it a more attractive proposition to buyers.