IT IS HOPED works to repair a roof can be escalated to stop water from leaking and causing further damage to a Grade I property.

Kinmel Hall, located near the village of St George in Abergele, was purchased by a mystery buyer at auction for £950,000 in May.

The auction was held by firm Allsop. The property was marketed by Allsop and Carter Jonas. There was interest from all over the world including the US, Australia and Europe.

Prior to the auction, campaigners had warned that the future of the North Wales mansion, dubbed the Welsh Versailles, would be at risk if action was not taken to preserve it.

Fears were raised that the Grade I property had only another five years in its current condition before further damage, including roof collapses.

A spokesperson from Conwy County Borough Council said: "We’re in ongoing dialogue with the owners, currently concentrating on progressing the roof repairs to stop water ingress."

It is understood the new owners are from the area.

When it was revealed the property had sold, Darren Millar, MS for Clwyd West, said: “There has been much concern over the future of Kinmel Hall in recent months, so I am pleased that a buyer has been found and that they are local.

“Being from the area themselves, they will clearly have an understanding of how precious Kinmel Hall is to the local area and want to do it justice.

“The previous owner of Kinmel Hall had it for 10 years, but sadly did nothing with it.

“Hopefully the new owner has lots of exciting plans and we will see this magnificent building returned to its former glory".