FRESH concerns have been raised about the future of Harlaw Hill House.

The category-A listed building has long fallen into disrepair, becoming a target of vandals who have smashed its windows.

The building, which is privately owned, is one of Prestonpans’ most historic buildings but a lack of maintenance has allowed it to fall into a worrying state.

The elderly owner officially moved out of the property in 2015 after allowing it to fall into a dilapidated state while he was resident.

In May last year, the building became engulfed in flames, causing further damage.

READ MORE: Firefighters battle large fire at Harlaw Hill House

In order to save the structure, Councillor Lachlan Bruce, ward member for Preston Seton Gosford, queried at a meeting of Prestonpans Community Council whether a compulsory purchase by East Lothian Council would be possible.

A compulsory purchase is a legal mechanism which allows groups, such as the local authority, the power to purchase the building without the consent of the owner.

Dr Johnston-Smith, chair of Prestonpans Community Council, hoped that progress could be made.

He said: “It is important to the town – we talk about it regularly.

“The threat of a compulsory purchase can be enough to make the owner move on it.”

However, a council spokesperson said: “The council would not consider purchasing a building that is in a poor state of disrepair and that we have no need or purpose for and is not a requirement of the capital plan.”