Bidders lined up for Fulham Town Hall

Fulham Town Hall will be bought by one of eleven official bidders, with a decision made by Christmas on who will take on the historic hall.

The property was listed for sale by Hammersmith and Fulham Council in May as part of its attempts to reduce its £133 million debt. Since the sale was announced, developers have been clamouring to put forward their proposals for the site, which have included hotel, retail and housing plans.

A shortlist will be picked from the eleven contenders by representatives from commercial property consultants Lambert Smith Hampton and the council's estates team.

The deputy leader of the council, Nick Botterill said everyone had confidence that all the plans that have been submitted would serve to enhance and improve the borough.

"I am very pleased that Fulham Town Hall is attracting such a high level of interest," he said. "I look forward to a solution that breathes life into Fulham, improves the council's finances, creates numerous job and launches a new era of prosperity for this famous building."

The Grade II-listed building dates back to 1888, and has housed the council's parking, cemeteries and CCTV departments, as well as its registry office and local housing teams. The building features a concert hall and grand hall as well as the grand chamber, and still has its original marble staircases, vaulted ceilings, oak doors and chandeliers in place.