39 - 41 George Street update

The council’s planning enforcement team is continuing to work closely with the developer to improve the appearance and condition of the site at 39–41 George Street.

A clear programme of improvement works has now been agreed. Most of the work addressing the main concerns about the site’s appearance will be completed over the next couple of weeks, with all agreed improvements due to be finished by mid-July.

The works include:

• improving and securing coverings on the exposed side walls;
• removing graffiti near the steps;
• strengthening fencing and screening around the site;
• installing more substantial site gates with information panels;
• fixing roof drainage over the footpath;
• and tidying the site by removing or safely storing materials.

The council’s enforcement officer will visit the site weekly to monitor progress. If the agreed improvements are not delivered within the timescales set, the council will take further formal enforcement action.

Cllr Julia Hilton, deputy leader of the council and Old Town ward councillor, said: “We know residents, businesses and visitors are frustrated by the condition of this prominent site, and we share that concern. Officers have been pressing the developer to take action, and a clear programme of improvement works has now been agreed. We will be monitoring progress closely and, if the agreed works are not delivered, we are ready to take further formal enforcement action.”

Planning permission for the redevelopment of the site has already been agreed in principle by the council, subject to final legal and technical steps being completed. Work is ongoing to finalise these matters so that the development can move forward. In the meantime, improving the site’s appearance remains a priority.