Property owners urged to tidy up
This summer Lancaster City Council is encouraging property owners along Morecambe's promenade to play their part in the regeneration of the town by tidying up their properties.
This summer Lancaster City Council is encouraging property owners along Morecambe's promenade to play their part in the regeneration of the town by tidying up their properties.
Owners of seafront properties between Central Drive and Queen Street were advised some time ago that council officers would be assessing this stretch of buildings for properties that appear to be either neglected in some way or where works have been carried out without the necessary permissions.
These assessments have now been carried out and the relevant owners will shortly be issued with a suggested schedule of works to be undertaken soon.
Much of the work required involves general maintenance such as re-painting fascias, removing vegetation and debris and repairing and re-painting gutters and downpipes, which should be carried out on a routine basis anyway.
While the council is hoping that property owners will want to do all they can to be part of the ongoing regeneration of Morecambe, those that turn a blind eye risk more formal action under Section 215 of the Town and Country Planning Act (1990).
The legislation allows local authorities to require property improvements to be undertaken if they are deemed to be adversely affecting the amenity of the area. Failure to comply with a Notice could lead to owners being taken to court and fined.
Coun Evelyn Archer, cabinet member with special responsibility for regeneration in Morecambe, said: "Millions of pounds are currently being invested in Morecambe and the town is on the cusp of a renaissance. We need everyone to play their part if we are to take full advantage of the opportunities we have. Initially we are encouraging property owners to undertake the suggested works voluntarily, but if they do not we are willing to prove our case in court."
Date Updated: 19/03/09