Alliance MLA Eóin Tennyson has called for action to be taken on an abandoned property in Banbridge. The Grove Meadows property has been abandoned since 2010 and residents are concerned it has become a health hazard.
Mr Tennyson said, “Action is required to locate the owner of this abandoned property in Grove Meadows and force them to bring it back to a livable standard. The property is unsightly and there have been complaints from residents in recent years pertaining to unauthorized access.
“I completely share residents’ concerns that if this matter is allowed to continue it will lead to a serious environmental health issue.
“Alliance representatives have been in contact with multiple government authorities to try to rectify the situation. I am hopeful that these efforts will help to bring this matter to a successful conclusion.
“In the meantime, Alliance are continuing to lobby the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to address legislative gaps to allow for greater enforcement action at local level. We understand that DAERA officials are currently assessing the legislation used by councils to deal with dilapidated/dangerous buildings and neglected sites.
“The Department originally consulted on a new Dilapidations Bill in 2016, but to date this Bill has not been laid before the Assembly. Alliance is committed to seeing the delivery of this legislation and will continue to urge the Minister to bring it forward at pace upon resumption of the institutions.”
ENDS
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