Tyneside council issues update on buildings let gutted by huge inferno more than a year ago

North Tyneside Council has issued an update on two properties left gutted in an inferno on November 25, 2024. The authority has stated that it has taken all the steps it can legally so far and has conducted a site visit this week.

However, the council has clarified that as the buildings are privately owned the responsibility for rectifying the structures falls on the owners.

Peter Mennell, director of housing and property services, said: “We understand the continued concern about the condition of the two fire‑damaged properties on Nile Street. These buildings are in separate private ownership, and responsibility for repairs lies with the owners.

“Our Building Control team has been in regular contact with both owners since the incident and continues to carry out inspections to ensure the structures remain safe, including a site visit this week. We have taken all actions available to us under current legislation, including securing the sites and providing guidance to the owners on the steps they need to take.

“Our primary focus remains on public safety, maintaining dialogue with the owners, and offering advice should they bring forward proposals for the future of the site.

“North Tyneside Council’s Ambition for North Shields regeneration programme has seen tens of millions of pounds of external funding brought into the town since 2021, with funding for major schemes from Historic England, UK Government and North East Combined Authority. This ongoing regeneration provides an attractive opportunity for building owners, investors and businesses in the town.”

Via Facebook, local councillor Frank Lott posted: “In terms of the role of the Council, there are statutory instruments that can be applied to help remedy the position. However, these instruments seek to address safety i.e. risk to life and property through the Building Act or seek to address issues of amenity through the Planning Act. Both are complex.”