Council seeks changes to Stormont’s dilapidation law

RATEPAYERS must not be forced to cover costs - potentially running into millions of pounds, for the repair of privately owned buildings left to decay by their owners.
That was the stance agreed by elected members after considering Causeway Coast and Glens’ response to a consultation on Stormont’s new Dilapidation Bill.
The proposed new laws aim to provide district councils with “a modern, consistent and fit for purpose enforcement regime to deal with the negative impact of dilapidated and dangerous buildings and neglected sites.”
When the council’s submission was debated last month members shared officers’ concerns that the proposed fine of £500 for property owners that fail to comply with enforcement notices was grossly inadequate. It was suggested a sum of £10,000 might be needed to prompt action from developers.

For the full report see this week's edition of the Chronicle and Northern Constitution