Rundown buildings set to be renovated

Kirklees Council has confirmed that it will use enforcement powers, if necessary, to get the buildings renovated, which could mean the owners are billed for any work carried out by the authority.

The council's Cabinet committee voted this week to allocate 750,000 for the works.

Cabinet member for regeneration, environment and transport, Coun David Sheard, said: "The objective of enforcement powers is to improve the physical and visual appearance of locations near to Dewsbury town centre.

"As they stand now they diminish the visitor experience to the town and negatively impact on nearby property prices and potential further investment in the area."

A total of 12 properties in and around the town centre and its key roads have been identified as in need of significant repair.

Coun Sheard said the council will work with owners of the 12 properties.

He added: "Ensuring compliance with an enforcement notice may, in these cases, mean that the council will make the necessary improvements to the buildings to continue the regeneration of the area but recover the expenses incurred in carrying out the works from the owner."

He claimed that residents and visitors will see "noticeable improvements" to the area, and added: "We believe this strategy will encourage owners to re-invest in their own properties which in turn would encourage further investment into the area."

He said the council was in talks with the Heritage Lottery Fund over the possibility of funding repair of historic properties in part of the town centre.