Action to tackle derelict sites

A push to redevelop derelict sites and buildings across Calderdale could soon be put into action, after the issue was discussed by the Council’s Economy and Environment Scrutiny Panel.
By The Newsroom
Published 25th Sep 2014, 11:12 BST
Halifax Town HallHalifax Town Hall
Halifax Town Hall

Calderdale Council’s Chair of the Economy and Environment Scrutiny Panel, Cllr James Baker said that neglected sites across the region are a blight on the community and their redevelopment could provide a welcome boost to the local economy.

“We receive many complaints from members of the public and we strongly feel that it’s time we took more positive action,” he said.

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“The Council already has strong legal powers to tackle the problem and we are calling on the Cabinet to make more use of these to force landlords to act.”

Local authorities have the power to serve a Section 215 Notice to a landlord where there is untidy land which is damaging the appearance of a local area. If the land owner fails to tidy up the site further action can be taken by the Council, including prosecution.

The Economy and Environment Scrutiny Panel recommended a review of planning enforcement, to ensure that available powers are used pro-actively.

Related topics:Calderdale CouncilCalderdale