PICTURES: Man fined over repairs failure at eyesore house in Preston

Altaf Hussain, 62, of New Hall Lane, Preston, was prosecuted by Preston City Council which had served him with a planning enforcement notice to carry out external works at an unoccupied property in Acregate Lane, Ribbleton, Preston, which has been left in a state of disrepair.

Director of Development, Chris Hayward, said: “Properties left in disrepair are not only a blight on the surrounding area, but can also cause damage to neighbouring dwellings over time if they are not rectified.

“We do try to work with property owners to ensure high standards during repairs or renovations, but this case highlights that enforcement action will be taken if necessary.”

Preston Magistrates’ Court heard in February 2016 a planning officer who was contacted about the property observed it in a state of disrepair. Officers attempted to contact Hussain, advising that the condition of the property was of concern but no response was received.

Due to the lack of communication and the condition of the dwelling affecting the neighbourhood, a statutory notice was served on him in October 2016, requiring him to make external improvement works to the property by February 2017 under section 215 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.

He failed to comply with the majority of the improvements by February - though the court heard he carried out most of the works required in the three weeks before his trial.

He was found guilty of failing to comply with the notice and must pay a £208 fine, £860.98 costs and £20 surcharge.