Northampton Borough Council is considering ways in which it can help restore Delapre Abbey, founded in 1145 and under the threat of redevelopment.

According to the Northampton Chronicle, the council was told that full restoration could cost up to £15m, but with the work considered to be a priority, private funding would have to be involved.

The authority's cabinet member for finance, councillor David Perkins said: "We'll need to bring in the private sector, because it's going to take money from both the public and private sector to do this. But we're not looking to see an Alton Towers in Northampton, we're looking for something sympathetic to the heritage of Delapre Abbey."

The council heard details of a three-year investigation into the abbey's future, which suggested that once the building is restored, it could be used for such things as weddings, functions and holiday homes.

A committee has now been set up to look at ways of raising the money required, the council having set aside £50,000 to fund the work.

Campaigners who have been fighting to restore the abbey have welcomed the move. Friends of Delapre Abbey member, Graham Walker said: "It's great they've found some money to help move things forward and they've committed themselves to the abbey. This historic site must not become a theme park."

Image: Brookie