THE owner of the Locarno has been ordered by a court to strengthen the burned out structure within 28 days.

The order to Gael Macken-zie was made by Swindon Magistrates Court.

But Swindon Council, which obtained the order, says it is a formality and was obtained in consultation with Mr Mackenzie.

The Victorian structure was gutted by fire in May the second fire there in just over a year.

It was feared the historic building would have to be demolished. The three bells were removed from the tower for fear that their weight would pull it down.

However, council engineers established it could be saved and Mr Mackenzie, owner of the Wood Street bar which bears his name, must ensure that this work is done.

Mr Mackenzie has long stated his commitment to preserving the building and giving it a new life as a housing and leisure development.

The council's building control group leader, Sandra Keats, said: "Councils apply for these orders as part of normal procedure to ensure safety but in this case it was done in consultation with the owner."

Mr Mackenzie was unavailable for comment.