MALTON’S former town hall has been put on the market. The Grade II property, which previously housed the town's museum, has undergone a £380,000 refurbishment by Fitzwilliam Malton Estate.

Leisure property specialists Fleurets have now been instructed to find a suitable operator for the town centre property, which has a guide rent of £50,000 per annum.

Simon Hall, Head of Pubs and Director at Fleurets Leeds Office, said: “This is a great opportunity for a high quality operator who is keen to launch a flagship restaurant, bar or café. The market square itself is a crucial hub for the whole town, which attracts customers from Malton, York and Scarborough, as well from the rest of the UK and abroad.”

The Town Hall provides 3,230sq ft over two floors and many of its original features have been retained, to reflect the heritage and character of the building. Local craftsmen including skilled stonemasons have helped with the transformation.

Keith Davies, Building Surveyor with the Estate, said: “Following the extensive refurbishment, including opening up the masonry and glazing the arches, we believe that the building has retained its 18th century feel, yet is geared for the 21st century.”

Roddy Bushell, Estate Manager, added: “This is a unique opportunity for someone interested in opening a stylish business in the centre of a bustling market town.

“The Town Hall could be a lynch-pin of the ethos of Malton being widely regarded as Yorkshire’s Food Capital.”