A NUMBER of eyesore sites on a Middlesbrough Council ‘hit list’ are now secure and awaiting re-development.
That follows work between Middlesbrough Council and the site owners to reduce the blight of stalled developments on local communities.
The approach was agreed by the Council’s Executive last June, with the aim of combating anti-social behaviour and encouraging sustainable development.
The Council looked to adopt a partnership approach where possible, with enforcement powers available as a last resort.
Good progress has been made on over the last ten months with owners located, sites cleared and development plans progressed.
Success stories include:
- Former Quoit Club, Addington Drive, Pallister Park
The site became a magnet for fly-tipping and antisocial behaviour, so the Council used its powers to level it and address a number of potential hazards, with 24-hour CCTV due to be installed.
Contact has now been established with the landowner and plans for modern, affordable housing are being progressed.
- Former Newcastle House pub, Ingram Road, Berwick Hills
This site is in a residential area and is currently fenced off. Plans for a convenience stored were turned down, in part due to a lack of appropriate parking and associated highways issues. Officers are continuing to work with the owners on other development options.
- Former Liberty’s nightclub, Longlands Road
In February 2021 planning permission was approved for the conversion of the site into four light industrial units. The development will secure the site and bring valuable employment opportunities to a once neglected area.
- 56 Cargo Fleet Lane/Bournemouth Avenue
Planning permission is in place for this site for new-build apartments and the owner actively maintains it and clears vegetation.
Middlesbrough Mayor Andy Preston said: “Derelict sites can really bring down an area, and they’re magnets for anti-social behaviour, vandalism and arson.
“That has a knock-on effect on the local community and they shouldn’t have to put up with it.
“This approach sends out a clear message that we’re not going to sit back and wait for things happen – we’re making them happen.”
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