WARRINGTON Civic Society is calling for future development replacing the Cabinet Works building to be of the 'highest possible standard'.

The historic site, including the landmark Garnett's water tower, will be knocked down in the coming weeks after a court order was issued due to its dangerous condition.

The site, on Barbauld Street, is set to be used as a temporary car park before work gets under way on a residential development, subject to planning permission.

John Shipley, chairman of Warrington Civic Society, has responded to the demolition announcement.

He said: "The demolition of the Cabinet Works, and especially the water tower, will be a sad loss to the town's heritage and skyline.

"While we accept that certain parts of the buildings are unsafe, Warrington Civic Society did not feel that demolition of the entire site was necessary and would have objected had that been proposed in a planning application.

"Unfortunately, due to the legal route taken by the council that was not possible.

"We are pleased that restoration is proposed for oldest building on the site, the former industrial school and council offices.

"Whatever development eventually replaces the Cabinet Works must also be of the highest possible standard.

"The buildings have been unused since at least the 1990s and earlier intervention would have allowed a different outcome.

"The loss of the Cabinet Works highlights the importance of taking a proactive stance and this story of neglect and decay must not be repeated with the town's remaining heritage."

Click here to take a look inside one of Warrington's most iconic buildings.