Issue - meetings

To retire the Derelict and Untidy Sites Policy (report of the Executive Director – Programme Delivery enclosed).

Consideration was given to the report of the Executive Director – Programme Delivery which sought to retire the Derelict and Untidy Sites Policy.

Cllr P Barnes, Chairman of the Derelict and Untidy Sites Task Group introduced the report and noted that, following a review, the policy did not provide any legal enforcement powers and therefore could not be used to secure action on untidy sites. Matters identified through the policy were required to be referred to the relevant service areas, including Planning Enforcement, Building Control or Environmental Services, which held the appropriate statutory powers.

Members were advised that the policy had created confusion, as it gave the impression that action could be taken directly under its provisions when this was not the case. Following discussions with the relevant service areas, it was recommended that the policy be retired as it duplicated existing processes and added unnecessary administrative burden.

It was further noted that officers would prepare a signposting document for Members and Parish councils, providing clear guidance on the appropriate service to which issues should be reported. In addition, a central logging system would be established to record reports and track progress across service areas, ensuring greater visibility and coordination of cases.

Members noted the benefits of addressing untidy sites and neglected properties. It was highlighted that effective intervention could enhance civic pride and community wellbeing by improving the appearance of neighbourhoods and removing unsightly or neglected sites.

Members also noted that acting in response to community concerns demonstrated the Council’s commitment to listening to residents and addressing issues affecting local areas.

It was further noted that securing and maintaining vacant or neglected properties could improve public safety, reduce opportunities for vandalism, arson and other anti-social behaviour, and help mitigate associated environmental issues such as fly-tipping and pest infestations.

Members recognised that bringing neglected sites back into use could also support wider economic regeneration objectives by creating opportunities for housing, commercial development and inward investment, thereby contributing to the revitalisation of local communities.

Members discussed the historical purpose and effectiveness of the Untidy Sites Policy. It was noted that the policy had originally been developed as a signposting and engagement mechanism rather than as an enforcement tool, with the aim of identifying problematic sites, coordinating activity across Council services, and encouraging engagement with property owners and potential developers. Reference was made to several prominent sites where the approach had assisted in understanding development opportunities and maintaining oversight of issues.

Members acknowledged that the policy itself did not provide additional enforcement powers, with any formal action required to be undertaken through existing statutory powers held by Planning Enforcement, Building Control or Environmental Health. It was further recognised that, over time, the policy had become less effective as sites changed and progress was difficult to monitor, with no comprehensive record of outcomes available.

The Task and Finish Group had reviewed the policy due to its relatively recent adoption and concluded that its original objectives could be achieved more effectively through a clear  ...  view the full minutes text for item 6

To consider the Final Report of the Derelict and Untidy Sites Task Group and provide feedback prior to its consideration by the Cabinet (report of the Derelict and Untidy Sites Task Group enclosed).

The Chairman of the Policy Development Panel informed the members that he had agreed that the Final Report of the Derelict and Untidy Sites Task group be deferred to the Policy Development Panel meeting being held on 2 June 2026.