TEIGNMOUTH'S famous orangery has been branded a 'wasting asset' that could become a future financial burden.

The town council is split over whether to take over the freehold of the unique greenhouse in Bitton Park, or have nothing to do with it.

Some have described it as an expensive irrelevance to most residents, while others passionately believe it should be preserved as part of the resort's heritage.

Councillors have to decide whether to accept responsibility for the structure after it has been given a major makeover by Teignbridge Council at a cost of about £150,000.

One suggestion is for the town council to retain the freehold, and give a long lease to the Friends of the Orangery.

Several members fear it could become a big drain on the budget.

Cllr Terry Falcao described it as a 'wasting asset' that would be a financial liability in years to come.

'Is it a black hole or a white elephant? I don't know. But I do know that spending money on this building does not have much support in the town.

'It is not relevant to the lives of our residents, and we should not take on a building that another authority does not want.

'Just because it is old and in the grounds of Bitton House does not mean we should take it on. If it was given to another body, they could obtain grants for the upkeep.

'Why can't Teignbridge lease it to the friends?' he asked a finance and

l general purposes committee meeting.

His view was shared by Cllr Ian Parkes, who said people were more concerned about the lack of youth facilities. But it was a difficult deci-

sion,and he agreed the implications of taking on the building should be looked at.

Cllr David Cox also had concerns about the ownership issue. It was worth preserving, but the town council should not accept the freehold because that could mean 'the council tax going almost as high as Dawlish in the future'.

He claimed Teignbridge had been 'forced' by English Heritage to renovate the listed building which had been badly neglected over the years, and the town council should work with the friends to help them take it over.

Cllr Vince Fusco thought it would be 'a pity to lose it', but was worried about the costs involved, which could mean putting the precept up 'even more'.

But Cllr Sylvia Russell was adamant that the town should recognise its responsibilities, and accept the orangery.

'We have lost a lot of historic buildings in this town. Taking on the orangery would not be a great expense, because the renovations being carried out should mean that maintenance would be very low for many years.

'The conservation officer has even agreed that some modern materials could be used to help with the upkeep, including toughened glass which would withstand anything but a battering ram.

'We have a duty to protect the heritage of this town. Give the friends a 99-year lease so they have a secure future. For goodness sake, let's support these volunteers."

Cllr David Weekes was 'very disappointed' at at some of the remarks made about not acquiring the building.

'Teignbridge will totally renovate it, and give it to the town council for a nominal sum. I don't see what the problem is.'

The mayor, Cllr Fred Tooley, maintained that 'Teignmouth people want to retain it', and suggested putting about £500 a year away to build up a special maintenance fund. Cllr Geoff Bladon added: 'Teignbridge wants shot of it. Let's take it on with open arms.'

Cllr James McMurray successfully proposed that an independent assessment should be sought over the possible maintenance costs and other liabilities. The implications of obtaining the freehold and leasing the property to the friends should also be looked at in much more detail.

Cllr Alex Cross agreed, also warning that, if the friends folded, the financial responsibility would be back with the council.

Town clerk Dave Tickell cautioned over the costs of an assessment. He pointed out that Teignbridge had to pay nearly £90,000 for a full survey, although the checks wanted by the town council would probably be a lot cheaper.

Members insisted any assessment should be carried out by a qualified, fully independent person, and Cllr Cross added: 'It cannot be done on a nod and a wink from a local builder.'

Earlier, Malcolm Rae, chairman of the friends, stressed the architectural and historical important of the orangery, and said that if the town council did not take it on, Teignbridge was adamant it would be sold, 'but it is totally obscure to whom'. It would be a great shame if it became a cafe.

The friends' relationship with Teignbridge had always been 'tenuous', but they were on good terms with the town council, and the best option would be for the town council to take it over.

'The maintenance would be minimal for many years, and it would secure the future of the orangery, which is unique because it is still attached to the original house.'