A MULTI-MILLION pound deal could see Backford Hall converted into a luxury hotel once council staff have left the landmark city building.

Cheshire West and Chester Council is asking for offers in excess of £2m for the 1863 Jacobean mansion with 24 acres of wooded grounds and a lake.

It is currently home to the departments of highways, trading standards and waste management having been bought by the defunct Cheshire County Council in 1946 for just £10,000.

The move is part of a mass sell-off of council properties – including County Hall – to match the shrinking workforce, which has raised £11m towards town hall coffers over the last two years.

Resources director Julie Gill said: "We have a completely open mind on possible uses for Backford Hall.

"It certainly has a wonderful semi-rural location, convenient for the motorway, the zoo and Chester.

"While a hotel is the obvious option, other uses could include prestigious offices or perhaps even conversion back to a home of very real character and distinction."

The 200 staff, who are moving out on a phased basis, will be relocated to district offices by the end of the year.

Mrs Gill added: "Backford Hall has served successive councils well over the years but it is a luxury in today’s financial climate when we need all the efficiency savings to protect front line services."

The 40-room Grade II listed building features a galleried hall, mahogany staircase, twisted chimneys and ornamental ceilings.

Previously it has served as a country club, headquarters of the Salvatorian religious order and Liverpool shipping company office.

The hall is said to haunted by a bewigged lady in a pink dress while the sound of horses’ hooves has been reported in the night.