An abandoned former court building constructed more than 150 years ago has gone on the market.

The historic building, in Gravesend town centre, is being listed for £500,000 after it is understood to have been sold at auction.

It was built in 1870 by architect Thomas Sorby who was known for his work on various civic buildings across the country including town halls, courts and churches.

The court opened in June 1871 where it heard civil cases until it closed in 2008 following a campaign to save it.

After a partial restoration by its former owners, the building, in King Street, was used by community organisation The Grand from 2012.

However, since September last year it has been derelict.

The Grade-II listed building is now back on the market with Acorn Group and is marketed as being “the perfect opportunity for a diverse range of possible occupiers”.

This could include a community hall, gym, events venue, art gallery, escape room, co-working space, restaurant or micro-brewery.

The agents also say it has the potential for extension or conversion into residential property, but only with planning permission.

The 7,675sq ft site – covering the space of nine fooball pitches – has a basement which has been used as a storage area, and a ground and first floor which have office space, meeting rooms, toilets and an exhibition room.

Speaking on the potential future of the building, Gravesend historian and tour guide Christoph Bull said: “I really hope that the new owners of the county court will enable it to be open to the public from time to time.”