A three-year-long scaffolding saga which has frustrated residents in a County Durham village could soon reach a conclusion as a court order is set to be served.
Scaffolding has surrounded a building on Leadgate Front Street in Consett since 2023 after concerns were raised about the safety of its gable end, with residents repeatedly complaining about delays to repair work.
But there was hope among villagers when on Monday (October 5), it emerged that the damaged flat had been placed on the market.
Now, the council says it will seek a court order on Wednesday, October 14, to compel the owner to undertake the necessary work.
Ted Murphy, Durham County Council's building safety and housing standards manager, said: "We are aware that the flat has been listed for sale, but we have no plans to purchase it.
"We are currently set to seek a court order on Wednesday, October 14 to compel the owner to carry out the necessary work to the building, in the interests of public safety, under Section 77 of the Building Act 1984."
It also forced the village DIY store to close a third of its shop. (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
Residents have long argued the scaffolding has become a hazard and an eyesore at one of the village's busiest junctions.
One resident, who asked not to be named, said: "It's been a big issue for three years and a major issue for pedestrians trying to cross a very busy road.
"There's been constant danger for the last three years.
"It looks like it's a derelict building but it isn't.
"It makes the village look not well kept."
Among the most vocal campaigners has been 79-year-old boat builder Fred Crowell, who previously drew attention to the issue by putting up a sarcastic "happy birthday" sign marking two years since the scaffolding was erected.
(Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
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Mr Crowell welcomed the latest move by the council.
He said: "If the council end up sorting it out, it is going to really benefit our community and people are not going to have to put their lives at risk daily.
"When it comes down we will have to have a street party for it, but we might have to ask the council to put another barrier up to protect us while we have the party."