Published on:
27
June 2008
Councillors have expressed their concern over the appearance, condition and progressive deterioration of a former Alva hotel.
The 200-year-old building, which has a prominent position in the town's Stirling Street, is in poor condition despite significant efforts by Council officers to convince the owners of the need to complete essential repairs.
Councillors heard that the building does not yet pose a public safety risk, but action is required to prevent further deterioration and to avoid the building becoming a danger.
The issue was discussed at yesterday's meeting of the Regulatory Committee.
Committee Convener Councillor Alastair Campbell said: "This building is a blight on the Hillfoots landscape and I am pleased to hear that Building Standards are taking a pro-active stance, tackling the issue before this eyesore becomes dangerous. While we all hope that dialogue with the owners bears fruit, sadly the reality is that the Council may have to use its powers to bring the building into a reasonable state of repair."
The Committee heard that it was the intention to serve a Defective Buildings Notice on the owners. If the owners do not comply with the terms of the Notice the Council may carry out the works and will recharge the costs to the owners.