It has concluded that Field House, built in the 1830s near the junction of Haugh Shaw Road and Arden Road "is an example of a type of house that is locally and nationally under threat from redevelopment and it contributes positively to its local area.

"Its loss will diminish the interest and distinctive character of this suburb of Halifax."

Halifax Civic Trust tried to persuade English Heritage to give the property listed status so that it could not be altered or demolished without permission.

But a survey revealed it had already been stripped of historic features and would not merit designation.

The building is thought to be being knocked down to clear the site for housing. A plan for 13 homes was rejected by Calderdale Council 18 months ago.

Trust chairman John Hargreaves said he regretted the loss of the building.

"We hope that every effort will be taken to ensure that whatever takes its place will enhance the built environment of this distinctive Victorian and Edwardian suburb and that, in particular, the fine Victorian stone walls and piered gateways will be retained," he said.

Field House was once the home of Edmund Minson Wavell (1804-1898), the first president of the Halifax Law Society and town clerk of the new municipal borough of Halifax, from 1849 to 1864.

Last month, Trevor Mitchell, English Heritage's new director for Yorkshire and the Humber, promised a review of more than 30 listed and unlisted buildings in Halifax.

It means Halifax Town Hall and the newly restored Somerset House, which are grade 2* listed properties, could be given a prestigious 1-star rating.

The current stock of listed buildings in Halifax town centre was drawn up in the early 1970s.