RESIDENTS who had formed an action group to try and save the future of Loyola Hall have welcomed the building's purchase by property developer and hotelier Lawrence Kenwright.

The Star understands that Lawrence, owner of Liverpool-based Signature Living, is seeking to transform the historic building into a wedding venue and hotel.

Mr Kenwright has already held a meeting with tenants of the property, known as guardians, who have been told they can continue using the hall for five months.

The hall has been used in partnership with Camelot for residential use by people who agree to act as guardians of the property.

The future of the Grade II listed building had been thrown into uncertainty after it was closed by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) in 2014 after being used for spiritual retreats.

Loyola Hall has a history stretching back to 1824 when it was built by landowner Bartholomew Bretherton and has been one of the most significant religious sites in the area.

It was sold to the Society of Jesus, more commonly known as The Jesuits, in 1923.

With growing uncertainty over the building, which is surrounded by 11 acres of private grounds, people in Rainhill rallied to form an action group in 2015 to ensure the hall could be used in future, with the 'Friends of Rainhill Hall' Facebook group attracting hundreds of members.

A resident who had been involved with the group said: "Some members of Rainhill community have met with Lawrence Kenwright a number of times and are very encouraged by the early plans.

"We look forward to hearing more details in the new year.

"I think it fair to say that Rainhill generally is pleased with the prospect of a hotel and wedding venue."