The Royal Hall was closed last year

Harrogate Council had been counting on �2m from regional development agency Yorkshire Forward to help preserve the town's Royal Hall.

But the agency says no decision has been taken on whether to give funding to the project.

The 100-year-old theatre was closed to the public last autumn when part of the ceiling in the south corridor collapsed.

Spiralling costs

In March, Prince Charles agreed to become patron of the Royal Hall Restoration Trust.

The trust wants to see the crumbling Grade II listed building - the last of its kind on the English mainland - returned to its former splendour.

But latest estimates suggest it will cost around �14.5m to transform the hall into a multi-purpose entertainment and community centre.

Lottery funding of �6m has been secured but without the �2m from Yorkshire Forward, the shortfall has risen to �5.5m.

No decision

Council leader Mick Garner said he had been led to understand the project would be looked upon "favourably" by the agency.

He said: "We are committed to doing everything we can to ensure this lovely old building is restored to its full and former glory.

"This council has already put aside �2.6m and cannot find any more cash."

But Yorkshire Forward say a meeting will take place at the end of the month to discuss the proposals.

A spokesman said: "A decision has not yet been taken.