Hull City Council is warning property owners in the city that it is prepared to take tough action against them, including convictions and fines, if buildings are allowed to fall into poor condition.
This was demonstrated by a Section 215 notice issued by the council to a freeholder, which it’s believed will act as a deterrent to other building owners to ensure their properties are well-maintained.
The notice was served to the owners of the ‘Westobys’ building – London-based Arthur Westoby & Co. Limited – at 124 Boulevard.
The property was vacated less than four years ago but has been left to deteriorate and it is now considered to have a detrimental effect on the building’s character, local amenity and conservation area as a whole.
The building has vegetation growth and rotting fabric, and is now impacting an adjoining residential building through damp.
The council’s planning enforcement department served the notice on the freeholder on 25 October and it has now taken full effect since the 14-day appeal period has surpassed without action.
The freeholder was aware of the department’s investigation and has taken no action as requested.
The council has requested the removal of all the vegetation from the façade and gutters, removal of waste materials and general rubbish and necessary and appropriate repairs to windows, gutters, fascia detail, dental blocks and paintwork.
The freeholder has two months, from 8 November, to comply with the notice.
Should the steps required by the notice not be undertaken the council will not hesitate to take further action, which could result in a conviction and fine for the property owner.
