Ideas put forward for Ludlow's former magistrates' court

One of Shropshire's oldest buildings could become a dental practice or a town hall, it was revealed as Ludlow Town Council chiefs were handed the keys to Ludlow's former magistrates' court.

Today's key handover was hailed as momentous by council bosses, who must now decide what to do with the 600-year-old Grade I listed building.

Historians say the premises in Mill Street is one of the oldest timber-framed buildings in Shropshire.

The council has begun a consultation with local people on its future. One suggestion lodged with the council is to turn the building into a dental practice.

Town clerk Veronica Calderbank said: "This is a momentous occasion in the building's 600th year, and the mayor Councillor John Aitken will receive the keys and the custody of the building.

"The town council is in the process of consulting as to future uses for the building and so far we have received a number of suggested uses including bringing the building back into public use as a new town hall, giving the town council a presence in the centre of town with its own meeting rooms.

"It has also been suggested that we combine the use with a tourist attraction such as the castle, charging for admission and most recently as a dental practice.

"Dr Martin Speight and Julia Ionides have both commented, and we would welcome suggestions from members of the public as to future uses for this prominent Grade I listed building."