Walsall opposition leader demands tougher approach on derelict sites

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 18 Oct, 08:02 · Archive

Walsall's Conservative opposition leader has called for an end to the 'softly softly touch' with enforcement notices on derelict properties.

Councillor Adrian Andrew, Conservative group leader at Walsall Council, has called for an end to the 'softly softly touch' with enforcement notices on derelict and nuisance sites. Speaking at a regeneration scrutiny committee meeting on 15 October, he said the authority should be 'asking for forgiveness rather than permission' when it comes to sorting out problematic properties.

Section 215 notices are an enforcement tool that can be served on land owners or occupiers when a property's state impacts the surrounding area, whether through being overgrown, untidy or derelict. Since 2021, eight such notices have been issued by the council. A report presented at the meeting stated that powers to secure compliance have not been fully utilised due to 'limited resources and support'.

Councillor Andrew, who held the regeneration portfolio ahead of the 2026 local elections, said a cultural change was needed. He acknowledged his own role in past approaches, stating: 'I put my hands up, I was there as a politician, but we've got to ask forgiveness, not permission.' In September the previous year, the then-Conservative cabinet approved a £4.7 million investment into all enforcement activities carried out by the council.

How it is being reported

• Demand to end to ‘softly softly’ approach with derelict sites in WalsallWalsall Council should be ‘asking for forgiveness rather than permission’BirminghamLive · 18 Oct, 07:30
• Walsall opposition leader demands end to ‘softly softly’ approach with derelict sitesCouncillor Adrian Andrew, Conservative group leader, said the authority should be ‘asking for forgiveness rather than permission’ when it comes to sorting out nuisance sites.Express & Star · 18 Oct, 02:00

In this story: Walsall Council · Adrian Andrew · Walsall

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