THERE is fresh hope for St Ives troubled Corn Exchange after councillors agreed to listen to a businessman s plans to save it. Last week St Ives Town Council agreed to listen to a proposal from Mike Purchas, owner of the town s Golden Lion Hotel, regardi

THERE is fresh hope for St Ives' troubled Corn Exchange after councillors agreed to listen to a businessman's plans to save it.

Last week St Ives Town Council agreed to listen to a proposal from Mike Purchas, owner of the town's Golden Lion Hotel, regarding the future of the building.

Mr Purchas believes that the town council can renovate the Corn Exchange for around £850,000 - significantly less than previous schemes.

The businessman is keen for the building to remain a community facility and has offered his experience to the town council.

Mayor Cllr Deborah Reynolds said: "This is an excellent offer. We have said in the past we will not go over £1million and this scheme is way below that."

Councillors voted unanimously to allow Mr Purchas to prepare a proposal that will be presented to the council on September 5.

Meanwhile, the building remains on the market with Barfords, but it is believed a financially sound proposal from Mr Purchas would be the favoured option.