CAMPAIGNERS are reeling after the shock decision to delist one of Reading’s famous landmarks.

The former Dolls’ Hospital at the corner of Castle Street and Bridge Street was granted grade II listed status by English Heritage in 1977 because of its place in the town’s streetscape.

But in a bolt-from-the-blue decision, the building has been delisted, which Reading Civic Society chairman Richard Bennett said leaves it at risk of being torn down and sets a dangerous precedent for other landmarks.

Mr Bennett said: “It surprised us the applicant could just go ahead and do that, even the council seemed surprised. We are concerned because the owners can do with the building whatever they like, in fact they could demolish it without further notice.

“But it does make us worry because this was done quite easily.

“If it could happen here then it could happen to another building. We are worried about English Heritage’s communications about something as significant as this.”

The building dates back to the 19th century and became famous as a Dolls’ Hospital in the Fifties until it was rebuilt in the Eighties, and the only original features were the roof and some internal walls.

Sarah Morland, who remembers going to the store in the Sixties when she was around seven years old, said it was like an “Aladdin’s Cave” of shelves and counters dedicated to the repair of teddy bears and dolls.

She added: “It was a very significant building in that part of Reading, with the big notice on the front. It was a bit like Jacksons Corner, there were wooden floors, and various counters where they could show you a full range of whatever you were looking for.

“I remember going in and they would have a choice of eyes for you to choose for your teddy.”

English Heritage spokesman Debbie Hickman stressed that Reading Borough Council, the owner, the applicant and Berkshire Historic Environment Record were all consulted about the decision along with the Department of Culture Media and Sport (DCMS).

She said: “The DCMS agreed that the building no longer meets the criteria for listing as it now lacks special architectural and historic interest.”

But Reading Borough Councillor Tony Page blasted the organisation for its “wholly unacceptable” decision and vowed not to let the matter rest.

He said: “While I was aware that they had this power, it was news to me that they can go ahead and delist without any by your leave to the local authority.

“It is completely against the spirit of co-operation that is supposed to underline the relationship between local authorities and English Heritage. I for one won’t be letting it rest.”