Issue - meetings

Report of the Cabinet Member for Housing Services is attached.

The Leader and Cabinet Member for Strategic Growth presented a report regarding the demolition of garages at Hawk Close, Bury. Members welcomed this report, as the garages have attracted anti-social behaviour and vandalism. It was noted that the future of the site was a key consideration, and the feasibility study would include views of local residents.

Decision:

Cabinet:

1.    Approved the demolition of the 28 garages situated at Hawk Close, Bury;

2.    Authorised the Director of Housing to procure and supervise the demolition works, including the safe removal of asbestos; and

3.    Instructed officers to prepare a feasibility study for future use of the site to be presented within the next 6 months.

Reasons for the decision:

All the 28 garages have been vacant empty for a considerable time, are beyond economic repair and are subject to repeated acts of vandalism, drug taking, setting fires etc and are a constant cause of nuisance and concern for residents.

Alternative options considered and rejected:

Doing nothing is not an option as the garages are a significant health and safety risk. The garages are beyond economic repair and restoring the garages is not a viable option.