LEOMINSTER’S Grange Court has been handed over to the town’s re-development company for £1.

After more than eight years of planning, Bill Jackson, the chairman of Leominster Area Regeneration Company (LARC), was given the keys to the historic property.

Mr Jackson handed over the nominal sum of £1 to Olwyn Barnett, chairman of Herefordshire Council, during last week’s community asset transfer.

Mr Jackson said: “This outstanding project, which incorporates the iconic former market hall, has been refurbished to an excellent standard and is something for Leominster residents and businesses to be proud of.

“We’ve also already had visitors from further afield including the USA, Holland and France, eager to take a look at such a marvellous example of our local heritage.”

Funded by substantial grants from the Big Lottery Community Assets Programme, Advantage West Midlands and the Social Investment Business Community Builders Fund, the historic former market house which dates back to 1633 is now marketed as a community, heritage and enterprise hub.

Councillor Roger Phillips, Herefordshire’s cabinet member for enterprise and culture, added: “This project has been a real testimony to partnership working and I’m delighted that we have reached the point where we are able to hand over Grange Court to LARC, as custodians on behalf of the Leominster community.

“The services and space offered by LARC here will be vital for the local community and we are delighted to have been able to support the project and ensure its completion.”

Grange Court is open to the public from July 1 and is available for weddings and conferences in addition to its use as a heritage visitor centre.

To find out more, contact Grange Court manager Dick Ellison on 01568 737980 or visit grangecourt.org