THE future of a dilapidated old hall looks brighter after a television historian was drafted in to renovate it.

Buckshaw Hall, on the site of the former Royal Ordnance Factory, Euxton, is in a state of disrepair -- as highlighted in The Citizen last week.

Now Richard Morriss, a member of Channel 4's Time Team, has conducted an archaeological and architectural analysis of Buckshaw Hall on behalf of current owners BAE SYSTEMS.

The historic buildings consultant will make sure it is structurally fit for use.

The hall, which has been described as the finest of its type in the North West, has a black and white timber frame house and dates from the mid-17th century but is currently wrapped in plastic sheeting.

Mr Morriss will also be helping to renovate Worden Old Hall in Leyland.

He said: "It is surprising that they have survived at all, as they appeared to be doomed in 1936 when the huge Royal Ordnance Factory was built. They survived almost by accident, despite not being listed until 1975."

Both buildings are Grade II listed and a total refurbishment will eventually be made when the buildings are acquired by the Redrow and Barratt consortium.

A clause for the restoration of Buckshaw Hall and Worden Old Hall was imposed on the developing consortium when they were granted permission to develop the site by Chorley and South Ribble councils.

When finished Buckshaw Village will have a business park, 6000 homes, shops, community and sporting facilities, woodland and open space.

Work on the commercial development has already begun and planning permission for the first new homes will begin in the new year.

Hazel Yates, honorary secretary of Chorley Civic Society which has been campaigning for the restoration of the hall, said: "This is fantastic news. It is very positive that things are going to start happening soon."