THE future of the crumbling Locarno is hanging in the balance after an application was placed to knock it down.

Land owner Gael Mackenzie has submitted an application to Swindon Council through site developer Steve Rosier, asking permission to demolish the listed building in Old Town.

It comes after 13 years of attempts to secure the building’s future.

But Mr Rosier, of Bach Homes Locarno, said they have also resubmitted a proposal to turn the building into a hotel – although it has yet to be formally registered with the council. This plan was rejected by the council in February last year.

Mr Rosier said Mr Mackenzie, who has owned the land since 2009, had met with the council several times over the last year but no progress had been made.

“During the last 12 years he has supported and promoted six planning applications,” said Mr Rosier.

“Since 2001 he has actively engaged with Swindon Council to find a viable development solution for the Locarno property combined with the council car parks. In February 2011, Swindon Council disengaged with the partnership for reasons never explained to Gael Mackenzie.

“In isolation and without Swindon Council the development of the Locarno site is unviable while retaining the buildings.

“Currently there is no alternative open to Gael Mackenzie other than secure planning approval to demolish these historic buildings, and then propose a new building on the site.

“Government planning policy supports the demolition of these buildings if this allows the land to be returned to viable use. The land owner Gael Mackenzie has been trying since 1999 to save the building which has now proven to be impossible.

“Enough time has been given towards establishing a viable development solution. Swindon Council has been involved since 2001 as joint land owners and no other more viable solution has been discussed or promoted by the council. The land lies in an important commercial area and needs to contribute to the local economy again.”

A planning application was submitted in September last year to secure an extension of time on the detailed planning permission given by the council in September 2008.

The Locarno could still be set for a new lease of life after they resubmitted controversial plans for a 117-bedroom hotel. Mr Rosier said:“We have agreement for the South West Design Panel to review the design. This panel comprises of eminent architects and designers and has a proven record for raising design standards. We are hopeful they may help us find a solution which does not tip the balance and councillors may support.”

Barry De la Haye, chairman of the Henrietta Court residents association, found out about the proposal when a notification was posted through his door by the council on Saturday.

“We have been supporting the plan to develop the Locarno right from the beginning,” he said. “We don’t want that building destroyed, we want it used. We were reasonably happy with the hotel plans provided it wasn’t as tall as the original plan.”

A council spokesman said the proposal will go to planning committee, which could be as soon as next month. The application over permission granted in 2008 should be determined by the planning inspectorate in May or June.