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  The following (quoted below) gives details about the Dereliction Act (1990s) which was to provide a 'solution' to a long time problem. In East Kent, a few years ago, DDC were asked to take some action on a property which had been an eyesore for about 30 years. They said they were hoping to make some enforcement. A few months later when asked what the position was they said they had decided not to do so. I believe this is entirely because of the cost. So what use are these so-called 'solutions'. Today's announcement that more measures are being brought in to deal with neglected and untidy properties may AGAIN offer a solution but will that solution be followed through, because of the cost to Councils ?? Or does it just sound good ?
  
  "Information on untidy land, what remedies the Local Planning Authority has, and a copy of the best practice guidance.
  From a community point of view, tidy gardens and land mean an area looks well cared for making people feel safe in that neighbourhood. If untidy sites are left, they become worse and the area starts to feel neglected and unsafe. Untidy sites are rarely dangerous to public health but they will be an eyesore, which means it is detrimental to the local amenity.
  The council can serve an 'amenity' notice on the owner of any land or building which is in an unreasonably untidy condition and we consider has an adverse affect on the amenity of the area. This is done under section 215 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended).
  This notice is used to maintain and improve the quality of the environment, to assist in tackling dereliction and retaining land in a productive use as well as contribute to the regeneration of an area and respond positively to public concerns.
  Many of the problems of untidy land and buildings are relatively easy to put right for example:
  blocked gutters and down pipes - water ingress will eventually destroy a building through frost and rot.
  fallen fences
  dilapidated walls / broken windows / graffiti
  land with fly tipping, industrial or demolition waste
  builders rubble
  dumped sofas/furniture
  abandoned vehicles
  dumped tyres
  overgrown gardens
  A notice can be served on the owner or occupier of any private land or building which is in an unreasonably untidy condition and which the Council consider has an adverse affect on the amenity of the area.
  The Notice will specify what needs to be done to correct the situation within a given timescale. It is an offence not to comply with the notice within the specified period. If the requirements of the notice and not carried out in the required timescale the landowner could be fined and have a criminal record
  There is a right of appeal against a notice issued under this section to the Magistrates Court. Failure to comply with the requirements of the notice constitutes a criminal offence subject on conviction to a fine not exceeding £1000.
  The Council is also empowered to enter land to carry out the works specified in the notice and reclaim costs from the land owner - usually by means of a land charge on the land or property.
  Central Government has produced a Best Practice guide on section 215 notices which can be downloaded below."

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