Author Elizabeth Gaskell’s former house in Plymouth Grove, Ardwick – where novels including Cranford and Wives and Daughters were written – is to receive a £2.5m refurbishment.

Manchester City Council approved the restoration work of the Grade II-listed building, which will include removing dry rot and building a new roof, new drains and adding lime plaster on the exterior walls. The house will also be made fully accessible and a lift will be installed.

Gaskell lived at the house, built in 1830s, between 1850-65 and it remained in her family until 1913.

Richard Cowell, executive member for planning and the environment for Manchester City Council, said: “Elizabeth Gaskell was one of Manchester’s great daughters and her former home has historic interest to the city. The planning permission will allow the vital work that is needed to be carried out.”

Janet Allan, chair of the Manchester Historic Buildings Trust, which owns the house, added: “We have enough money to fund some of the first phrase and are in the process of raising the rest of the £2.5m that is required.”