ULVERSTON Town Council has taken steps towards safeguarding one of Furness's historic buildings from future 'exploitation'.

At a meeting of the council on Monday (January 15) it was agreed an application would be put forward to list the town's Lloyds bank as an asset of community value.

Leader of the council Colin Pickthall explained to the Gazette that there were 'bad rumours about every bank', with hours shortening and some closing their doors entirely.

"We were concerned that it might suddenly be sold and get itself turned into yet another bar or something," he explained. "If we register it, if the owners decide to get rid of it for any reason you can put a brake on it for six months.

"That gives you six months to look around and see if you can find any other way of dealing with the problem without losing the building. That's what happened with the Coronation Hall and it's now thriving."

The bank, which was built in 1845 and is located on the junction of Union Street and Market Street, is currently owned by Lloyds, rather than leased.

"We would hope not to lose the building to ruthless exploitation," Cllr Pickthall said.

He added that there were a number of options for the bank if it did change use, including a museum, library or town hall.