Inside Scarborough's historic tennis Club House undergoing restoration works
New photographs have revealed the condition of a much-loved former tennis clubhouse.
The historic Grade-II listed Club House at the Scarborough Sports and Tennis Club has been undergoing repair and remedial works in an effort to preserve it.
Built in 1912, the building has fallen into a deteriorated condition following repeated incidents of vandalism.
Located at Filey Road, the Club House has largely been subjected to prolonged exposure to the elements and new photographs released by the North Yorkshire Council-owned Align Property Services has revealed the extent of the disrepair.
Designed by Sir Edwin Cooper, it is considered nationally rare as a purpose-built tennis clubhouse, and significant for its external elevations, dormers, chimneys, porthole windows, columns and slate roof.
“The structure reflects the development of leisure and recreational architecture within Scarborough and contributes to the understanding of the town’s social history,” according to a council report.
North Yorkshire Council has applied for retrospective permission for repair works, including the removal of the remaining roof covering and the installation of a replacement roof using natural slate to match the existing materials, appearance, and detailing.
Other conservation repairs include works to dormers, cupola, chimneys, timber fascias and soffits, rainwater goods, the west-facing gable, and investigation/repair works to the principal entrance colonnade where required.
The works also include the removal of asbestos-containing materials within the basement, specifically within the former boiler room.
“The works are required to address identified health and safety risks and to facilitate the safe future management and use of the building,” a report states.
Align Property said: “The removal of the existing roof covering will result in the temporary loss of historic fabric.
“However, this is justified by the condition of the roof, which is beyond reasonable repair in its current state.
"The proposed reinstatement using matching natural slate and traditional detailing will preserve the building’s architectural character and ensure that its significance is maintained.
“The proposed works are necessary to address both structural deterioration and health and safety risks associated with the building.
"Without intervention, the continued degradation of the roof structure will lead to further loss of historic fabric and potential structural failure.”
The local planning authority has not set a date for deciding on the plans.