A derelict former school, believed to have connections with the Bronte family, has been saved from demolition by Kirklees councillors.

Britannia Construction, present owners of the former National School in Halifax Road, Hightown, Liversedge, applied to the Council for permission to demolish the building and replace it with two detached houses. But the Heavy Woollen planning committee agreed with planning officers' recommendations to refuse the application.

A report drawn up by officers asked the Council to consider urgent works to make the Grade II-listed building waterproof and vandal-proof. The report said an active programme of marketing and alternative uses/partners in development had not yet been carried out and the Council's Conservation Team was re-examining the possibility of obtaining funding for repairs.

The report states: "Whilst it is recognised that there are serious defects with the building, avenues have not been exhausted to the extent that demolition of the building is the sole means of finding a viable use and development of the site. It is unfortunate that site developers now find themselves in a position where they have acquired somewhat of an economic millstone in terms of the repairs required to enable the building to have a long term future and use."

Max Rathmell, chairman of the Spen Valley Civic Society, said he was pleased with the decision.

"My hope is that the owners will now change tack and stop persisting in trying to get the building demolished," he said. "It could make really attractive offices for a company who renovate for a living."

Councillor Andrew Pinnock (Lib Dem, Cleckheaton) said: "It is a building of great distinction in the Spen Valley and I think everyone would regret it if it disappeared. I admit it is not in very good order and does need a bit of work but it could be turned into flats or offices."

Britannia Construction applied for a Buildings At Risk grant from Kirklees Council to restore and convert the building. But the bid was refused and the owners felt the severity of the defects meant the building, which dates back to 1818, could not now be saved.