SDLP Councillor Martin Reilly has welcomed the publication of a document by the DOE (now the Department of Agriculture, Environment & Rural Affairs) outlining policy proposals to tackle the problems associated with dilapidated buildings in Northern Ireland – and has urged residents in Derry who are affected by the problem to respond to the consultation process which is open until 30 June next
Cllr Reilly has consistently made representations to various government departments and statutory agencies on behalf of homeowners in the city who have been blighted by empty or derelict properties.
He said: “Empty or derelict properties bring many problems for neighbouring residents.
“They blight neighbourhoods by creating health and safety concerns, are a target for antisocial behaviour, and can also drag down house prices in an area.
“Furthermore, they are a wasted resource in a city that has such a housing shortage.
“This problem is not confined to residential streets, as in business areas derelict properties also adversely affect the quality of the environment.
“Giving local councils a more direct involvement in tackling these types of problems compliments our planning, economic development, community planning and local tourism roles.
“I therefore welcome the publication of this document aimed at tackling the problems associated with dilapidated buildings and would encourage those who are affected to respond to the consultation process via the website www.daera-ni.gov.uk/consultations/dilapidated-dangerous-buildings-neglected-sites-policy .”
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