Property owners who refuse to deal with dilapidated buildings and unsightly land could be fined up to ?5,000.

A public consultation has been launched today (Tuesday) into proposed new legislation that includes ?100 spot fines and up to ?5,000 fines for failing to comply with a court demand to carry out improvements.

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne said: 'Government’s investment in regeneration projects is continuing to have a positive impact on the appearance of our towns and villages. Unfortunately there are still pockets of neglected buildings and land that undermine efforts to revitalise local communities and their economies.

'The department has been working in partnership with local authorities and these proposals reflect a common desire to tackle this issue.’

Tougher new laws would mean that owners not only have to remedy the original problem but must take action to ensure their building or land is properly maintained to avoid the issue reoccurring.


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