Lib Dems Threaten Legal Action Against Blackpool Council to Save Conservation Area
The Liberal Democrats have called on Blackpool's Labour-run council to fulfil its obligation to protect the Foxhall Conservation Area (FCA), a vital part of Blackpool's cultural heritage. Council neglect has led to a deterioration of this historic area, and a petition signed by local residents and business owners has been met with inaction.
In 2018, local residents identified several dilapidated buildings within the FCA and proposed simple, low-cost measures to restore the area. A recent comparison with the pictorial evidence from the 2018 petition shows that the same eyesores persist, exacerbating urban decay and negatively affecting the lives of residents and business owners.
Andrew Cregan, Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate for Blackpool South, stated: "Blackpool Borough Council has failed its duty to protect the Foxhall Conservation Area. Neglect has not only allowed existing issues to persist but has led to further degradation, with new properties falling into disrepair. This is unacceptable and must be addressed immediately to restore pride in this historic neighbourhood."
The Liberal Democrats propose the following actions to rectify the situation and restore civic pride in the Foxhall Conservation Area:
- Immediate Enforcement Action: The Council should use its powers under the Town & Country Planning Act 1990 to issue Section 215 Notices to landlords of dilapidated properties, mandating necessary improvements.
- Annual Property Appraisals: The Council should conduct annual inspections of properties within the conservation area to proactively identify and address buildings in poor condition, using Section 215 powers as a tool for sustainable regeneration.
- Community Mural Project: A mural should be created on the façade of the electricity substation on Caroline Street, an eyesore prominently visible to visitors.
Blackpool Borough Council has been urged to respond to these demands within 21 days, failing which, legal action may be pursued.