ABBEY House, the Mayor of Winchester’s official home, should have a five-figure renovation programme over the next five years, said a report from city councillors.

The building on The Broadway which dates from the 16th century has been allowed to deteriorate and is mainly empty most of the time.

A report by councillors said Abbey House should remain the mayor’s base and not be let to a private tenant. That would require too large an investment.

Cllr Chris Pines, chairman of the overview and scrutiny committee and himself a former mayor, said at the committee meeting last night: “Abbey House is a huge asset for Winchester regardless of how efficiently it is being used.”

The priority is to make it fully safe with work needed to the parapet.

The overview and scrutiny committee said a £250,000 refurbishment should be budgeted.