Derelict Victorian house in Whitefield to be demolished

A council property in Whitefield is to be knocked down due to its condition and the cost of repair.

The Elms is a Victorian building which has been subdivided and extended into five flats. It has been vacant for approximately three years due to extensive and severe dry rot throughout. There is also housing land to the rear of the property which is overgrown and landlocked by the property.

A report to councillors revealed that the estimated cost of repair would be more than £1 million.

Councillor Clare Cummins, cabinet member for housing services, said: “This is a derelict property which is causing blight to neighbouring properties and the community. There is a risk that it will attract anti-social behaviour, including fly-tipping and arson, and any further deterioration in its condition would result in additional costs to remedy.”

The future of the cleared site will be determined following an options appraisal, in accordance  with the priorities set out in the council’s housing strategy.

ENDS

Press release issued: 6 June 2022.