PLANS to scale back Eden District Council’s office space could lead to the sale of a historic Penrith building.

District councillors agreed at a meeting this week to move all staff to the Town Hall and sell or lease the council’s Grade II listed Mansion House and Corney Square premises.

The move could save the council £100,000 a year on running costs and help raise £1.2 million for an extension to the Town Hall..

The Council's Chief Executive, Robin Hooper said: “Progressing the one site project is a fundamental part of the Council's business plan, we need modern facilities to meet the needs and aspirations of the local community.

"We are working to acquire more assets in the North of Penrith and are speaking to our partners to ensure this part of town remains economically vibrant. At the same time we also recognise the high regard the public has for historic buildings such as Mansion House and we will handle its sale or lease accordingly.”

Mr Hooper will now lead the single public office plan project, with a £10,000 budget for the final feasibility stages.

The two properties will be put up for sale or lease in March 2012 and any offers received will be considered by the Council. Members of the Council and the public will be kept informed of the project’s progress.

The size and design of the proposed extension will be subject to a second feasability study but the council hope to include a new office for 50 staff, two committee rooms, a council chamber which can be hired by the public and IT suite in the the former mortuary building.

Penrith’s Mansion House was built in 1750 by John de Whelpdale - a founding governer of the town’s Grammar School.