Children have continued to break into the Workmen’s Hall despite a dangerous "massive drop in the back of the building", according to a councillor.

The Workmen’s Hall in Garnant has a history of break-ins and on August 26, the property was on fire for several hours.

Despite the risk of death, the private owners have seemingly abandoned the building by not completing any repairs.

Shadow Cabinet Member for Resources and Environment, Kevin Madge said: “That building worries me. It’s half term this week so kids are going to be down there again. I keep raising this issue and I can’t believe the council haven’t taken the owners to court.

“They have abandoned the building. Every time the council does something to fix a situation, it forces the ratepayers to pay more. Previously a private company wanted to create a care home and planning permission was already given.

“I have been warning parents to prevent their kids from going there. But if the council brick it up they won’t be able to get in. The owners have no intention to repair the hall. Last January, part of the chimney fell into the shop next door.

“Only a matter of time before the chimney falls off and goes into a resident’s garden. The building is dangerous. There is a massive drop in the back of the building where a child could easily be killed. These entrances need to be secured from entry."

Mr Madge also expressed his fear the building could be set on fire again and alight nearby buildings.

Carmarthenshire County Council have confirmed the property is privately owned so the landowners are responsible for the building becoming hazardous.

A spokesperson said: “We are aware of reports of trespass and have appointed a contractor to re-secure the structure.

“The authority has taken enforcement action against the owner to secure the roof under section 78 of the Building Safety Act 1984 and to secure the building from trespass under the Local Government Act 1982.

 “The authority continues to monitor the building and is working with Dyfed-Powys Police and MWW Fire brigade following the most recent events.”

“As the local authority, we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents and would like to remind everyone of the dangers associated with entering or approaching empty and abandoned buildings which can pose significant risks to life and safety and would urge our communities, for their safety and the safety of others, not to enter these structures.”