A HISTORICAL building in Hartlepool which has stood empty for the past five years could be given a new lease of life.

The former Northgate Library, Carnegie Building, was inherited by Hartlepool Borough Council from Cleveland Council and used as a library for the Headland.

As a result of maintenance problems and a lack of money, the building was vacated in 1999, and the service transferred to the borough buildings. Since then, it has stood empty, and is beginning to deteriorate.

It is a Grade II listed building and is in an area which is the subject of a regeneration investment programme.

A few years ago, a survey was carried out with residents on the Headland who said, they wished to see the building restored and brought back into use.

It has now been proposed to use the building as accommodation for the council's sports development service and library bibliographic and special services.

This would involve a full structural repair, roof replacement, external restoration, internal modifications and refit of the building.

A report to the council's regeneration and economy portfolio, which meets on Friday, said: "The Carnegie Building is a prominent, landmark building and as a former library and maritime museum is held in high regard by Headland residents."

The plans will be discussed by the portfolio at a meeting on Friday.