Previously owned by the Hebdon Brothers, it was purchased by Stokesley Rural District Council, who, in 1968, demolished the adjoining cottage and shop to build bungalows in Stone Close, selling on the Hall to a Middlesbrough solicitor for £ 1250. He applied to have it demolished but following opposition from the Civic Society and others, the Minister for Environment refused the application.
Until I975, on the site now occupied by Stone Hall Close and adjacent flats, stood Stone Hall, the oldest and most prominent building on the High Street
However the building was in a dilapidated and dangerous condition with an estimated £20,000 needed to renovate it. The problem appeared to be solved when a donation from an anonymous donor enabled the North East Civic Trust to purchase the property and start renovations. (Did anybody discover the identity of the donor?) Work started in 1972 with scaffolding erected. The facia was made safe and the roof repaired to make it waterproof. In 1975 whilst undergoing further work, workmen noticed movement in the structure and promptly cordoned off the building. Two days later a corner collapsed into the street below. The cost of underpinning was prohibitive, leaving no alternative but complete demolition.