A HISTORIC landmark is set for auction with bids starting at £750,000.

Campaigners have been fighting to save Kinmel Hall, in St George, near Abergele; fears were raised that the French-style Edwardian manor only has another five years in its current condition before further damage - including roof collapses - will mean it is "beyond repair".

The residential auction, by firm Allsop, will be held on May 13. The property is being marketed jointly by Allsop and Carter Jonas.

Gary Murphy, consultant and auctioneer at Allsop, said: “Kinmel Hall is a unique property, not least because it was modelled on the Palace of Versailles. Designed by a renowned Victorian architect, William E Nesfield, it’s a rare example of a calendar house, with 365 windows, 122 rooms and 12 entrances.

"The property requires extensive restoration and refurbishment, which is reflected in the guide price, but it also offers enormous potential and can be reimagined as a hotel or residential units, provided all necessary consents are in place.”

The listing states: "Construction was completed in 1874 and the property was designed by the architect WE Nesfield in the style of the Palace of Versailles

"Comprising a grand central staircase, impressive formal rooms, a former chapel and multiple bedrooms, Kinmel Hall was originally built as a 'calendar house' since it had 365 windows, 122 rooms and 12 entrances.

"Range of outbuildings including a courtyard stable block and storage barns.

"Total Gross External Floor Area (excluding stable block) in excess of 7,432 sq m (80,000 sq ft).

"Site Area approximately 7.09 Hectares (17.51 Acres)

"Suitable for a variety of alternative uses including hotel, conference centre, educational establishment and conversion to residential units, subject to consents.

"In need of extensive renovation."

In March, Member's of Abergele Town Council Ordinary Meeting discussed the growing desire to protect Kinmel Hall.

Both Friends of Kinmel Hall (FKH) and SAVE have been calling for action.

Rosie Burton, of Friends of Kinmel Hall, said: "The Friends of Kinmel Hall was alerted to the fact that the Hall has been put up for auction by an interested party.

"The FKH cautiously welcome a new owner for the hall. It will all depend on the ability of the new owner to carry out the urgent repairs to the building quickly.

"The FKH will be happy to work with any new owners to allow the hall to be brought back into its former glory."

A spokesperson from Conwy County Borough Council said: "We will watch the sale with interest and are able to offer advice and guidance to any prospective purchasers."

Marcus Binney, SAVE’s executive president, said he is worried not enough time is being given for serious bidders to come forward to purchase Kinmel Hall with the auction being next month. 

He told the Journal: "It is very important, and hence your article is also important, that people realise what a terrible state it is it is in and they will have to do some very important repairs immediately and the council has been chasing the owners to do these repairs and rather than do them, they have just put it on the market.

“There is a small chance that someone really good will buy it but we don’t think there has been enough chance given for people to work out serious proposals."