A crackdown has been launched against “scruffy” shops that “blight” the high street in two market towns. Erewash Borough Council announced that “neglected” shops in a poor state could face legal notices in Ilkeston and Long Eaton.
Councillor Curtis Howard, lead member for town centres, regeneration and planning, said the council could issue a maintenance notice to require the owner or occupier to deal with the poor state of a building. The council said it is “keen to work” with both vacant and trading properties, but as a last resort, it could compel them to make repairs. It confirmed that three ultimatums have already been issued in Long Eaton.
Howard added: “We don’t want to do that but we have a duty to act on behalf of residents where buildings have become an eyesore that blight the town centre.”
The crackdown coincides with a £25 million regeneration boost from the Government into Long Eaton.
The high street is set to be upgraded, and demolition is also underway on an old cinema – the Galaxy – which will be replaced by commercial units, townhouses and flats.
Other boosts to the streetscape include setting aside fresh money for bus shelters to be repaired.
In Ilkeston there are plans to transform Bath Street’s vacant Argos store. The council is supporting an application by the site’s owners for government funding to turn it into two retail outlets with 11 apartments.
Councillor Howard said: “One of the priorities of the Labour administration is to take action to improve our town centres.
“That includes ensuring that the best use is made of the opportunities for new businesses to move in – while encouraging property owners to maintain their buildings.”