16/10/2024: Court decision a 'major milestone' in council's efforts to tackle Dereham eyesore

Breckland Council is pleased to announce it has secured a successful outcome in its legal case against the owners of a deteriorating property in Dereham's Market Place. 

A hearing at Great Yarmouth Magistrate's Court yesterday (15 October) saw the council raise concerns about the visual blight and safety of the former Akaash Tandoori Restaurant, at 22-23 Market Place, and a lack of progress being made by the owners in delivering repairs. 

As a result, the Court issued an Order under the Buildings Act 1984, which requires the owners to undertake essential safety repairs within 28 days. 

The required works include securing the lean-to roof, replacing damaged roof tiles, fixing rainwater guttering, and boarding up one of the windows. 

In addition to the repair mandate, the Court ordered the owners pay the Council more than £6000 in legal fees, ensuring public funds are not impacted by the case. 

Should the owners fail to comply within the specified timeframe, Breckland Council has been granted the authority to carry out the repairs and then recover the costs from the owners by placing a legal charge against the property. 

Breckland's Executive Member for Housing and Planning, Councillor Sarah Suggitt, said: "This legal victory is a major milestone in addressing the concerns surrounding this property, which has been a longstanding blight on the Market Place in Dereham. While the immediate repairs won't drastically change the appearance of the building, ensuring its safety is our top priority. We hope this outcome encourages the owners to take responsibility for the property's future and shows other property owners that Breckland Council will take all necessary steps to ensure essential works are carried out." 

Dereham Neatherd Councillors, Linda Monument, William Richmond and Alison Webb, commented: "While we would have preferred for the owners to have addressed this matter themselves some time ago, through Breckland council's persistence and support of the Court we're pleased to have now been able to deliver on our commitment to protect our high streets on behalf of our Dereham residents and visitors to the town."