Lib Dem Councillors Urge Council to Take Action over Neglected Vacant Site

Lib Dem Councillors call on council to step in over long-neglected vacant site

Cambridge Ward Liberal Democrat councillors are asking the council to step in over a long vacant site which continues to cause concern for local residents after years of inactivity.

The privately owned site has been left open and unsecured, with damaged fencing allowing access. Residents say this has led to repeated fly-tipping and further deterioration, despite the site being located in a residential area.

Following a recent visit, councillors Mike Sammon and Leo Evans have formally contacted the council’s Planning Enforcement team to ask what action can be taken to address the situation.

Councillor Mike Sammon said:

“Residents have raised concerns about this site for a long time and it is clear that the current situation is not acceptable. The land is open and unsecured, which is contributing to fly-tipping and ongoing problems for people living nearby.

I have now asked the council to step in, assess the site and consider using the powers available to require it to be properly secured and maintained. Residents should not have to live next to a site that has been left to decline indefinitely.”

Councillor Leo Evans added:

“This is a familiar issue where land is left vacant for years with little accountability, while residents are left dealing with the consequences.

While we are asking the council to act now, situations like this also underline the need for stronger laws so that sites cannot be left vacant and unmanaged for years without consequence.”

The councillors say they will continue to press for action and will update residents once a response is received from the council.