URL: https://councildecisions.bury.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=4264

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: The Leader and Cabinet Member for Strategic Growth presented a report regarding the adoption of an enforced sale combined policy and procedure as an additional tool to assist with reducing the number of empty properties in the borough. In response to Member questions as to whether this could be applied to commercial properties, it was noted that depended on the charges that had been incurred by the property, as each case was considered on an individual basis, but that the policy was not typically used for commercial properties.   Decision: Cabinet: 1.    Approved, for adoption and implementation the enforced sale policy and procedure; and 2.    Delegated authority to Assistant Director – Public Protection and Resilience to authorise enforced sale of properties deemed suitable where appropriate.   Reasons for the decision: The enforced sale policy and procedure is a tool which can be used to support returning long term empty properties back into habitable use. It has the potential to support an area's regeneration effort, support the provision of housing while recovering outstanding Council debts. It signals the Council’s commitment to addressing the issues that long empty property often present, such as area deterioration, crime and anti-social behaviour. The policy allows the Council to be open, transparent and accountable in decision making when considering a property for an enforced sale and further commits to the Council’s strategic objectives.   Alternative options considered and rejected: Not adopt the policy and procedure - In the absence of an established policy and procedure, officers are unable to appropriately assess or justify the use of enforced sale powers. This limits the Council’s ability to intervene effectively, resulting in the continued accumulation of debt on affected properties. These properties are likely to deteriorate further, contributing to blight and negatively impacting the surrounding communities.

Date of Decision: October 15, 2025