Developers interested in renovating a stately home have six weeks to submit detailed plans of their proposals.

There are currently two parties interested in developing the Grade II-listed Braunstone Hall, which was built in 1776 by James Oldham and occupied by the Winstanley family until 1926.

The building, in Braunstone Park, Braunstone, Leicester, was then turned into a school, but has been a target for arsonists and vandals since it was closed in 1996.

Leicester City Council has told interested parties they have until 2pm on Thursday, June 2, to declare what they would do with the hall, how much it would cost, and how much financial support they would need from the council.

A council spokesman said the authority could not say what the proposed plans were because the information was "commercially sensitive".

To attract developers, the council is selling 1.5 acres of green space by Hinckley Road and Winstanley Drive to raise money to help with renovation costs. It is seeking offers of more than £350,000 excluding VAT, and has received four bids which fall short of this amount. A spokesman said: "The expressions of interest submissions have identified that financial support is required by both interested parties.

"However, the extent and need of such support will require evidencing in the bid submission which is to be provided by June 2."

Lee Clarke, leader of the Restore Braunstone Hall campaign group, said: "I have made my feelings to the council very clear – they should stop dragging their heels, accept the offer and get on with undertaking some of the work."