Campaign launched to ensure eyesore buildings are demolished

A NEW campaign has been launched calling for the council to ensure eyesore abandoned buildings are demolished in Newquay.

Nisa Gale has started a petition titled Require timely demolition of derelict buildings by developers, which is urging Cornwall Council to bring in a new policy that requires unsafe structures to be knocked down swiftly once planning consent is granted.

Nisa started the petition on Change.org due to the impact of living next to the Hotel Bristol. She is concerned the building is becoming dangerous following storms tearing off roof tiles and people breaking into the boarded-up premises.

Residents gathered outside the Hotel Bristol on Saturday afternoon to discuss future plans for the campaign.

Nisa Gale said: “The Hotel Bristol is a hazardous developmental site, which by all standards, is an unnecessary danger to our community here in Newquay.

“The abandoned building, slated for future development, was left in a horrendous state once the planning permission was granted. Its hazardous nature became glaringly apparent during the last storm when hundreds of roof tiles were torn off, resulting in significant damage to nearby homes and vehicles, costing residents thousands of pounds in repair.

“The problem lies not only with the structural dangers but also with the accessibility of this site, which is inadequately secured. The area poses an undeniable risk, especially for young teenagers who are often seen exploring the premises. The presence of asbestos, damaged floors, and broken windows makes this a highly unsafe environment. It is only a matter of time before another serious accident happens if careless neglect continues.

“To address these pressing concerns, we urge Cornwall Council to take prompt action and institute a new policy. Developers must be required to demolish unsafe structures swiftly once planning consent is granted. This move will ensure the immediate mitigation of risks, safeguarding our community from physical harm and financial damage.

“Statistics show that derelict buildings often become sites of accidents and criminal activities. A report by the Health and Safety Executive indicates that broken structures lead to numerous injuries annually.

“Moreover, these neglected sites decrease local property values and harm the neighbourhood’s appearance, as evidenced by studies from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

“The specific safety and aesthetic issues stemming from this neglect demand urgent action. With people’s support, we can press upon the council to implement regulations that enforce quick and responsible demolition processes. This proactive measure will not only enhance the safety and attractiveness of areas currently marred by decrepit buildings but also foster a sense of community pride and security.”

Resident Nigel Cooper added: “The row of derelict buildings are a complete mess and an eyesore. There have already been two fires in the buildings and a death. We do not feel safe.”

The campaign is being backed by former Gadget show presenter Simon Bradbury who lives in the town. He has already held a meeting with Newquay MP Noah Law to discuss the campaign.

The campaign follows developer Salboy abandoning its plans to demolish the Hotel Bristol, Narrowcliff Hotel, Narrowcliff doctor's surgery as well as two residential properties and construct 143 new dwellings in three separate buildings over five storeys due to “market conditions” making the scheme “undeliverable.”

The Manchester based company is now putting together proposals to knock down the Hotel Bristol to allow a temporary use on the site, which will help recover the cost of knocking down the building.

Newquay central Cornwall councillor Joanna Kenny said she sympathises with the sentiments in the petition but underlined the unitary authority does not have the legal power to enforce demolition on private property.

Cllr Kenny said: “All the agencies working together via the Derelict Building Working Party, which I chair on behalf of Newquay Town Council, are liaising both with the owner’s local representatives and with their top management and it has been reported recently that there will be a new planning application from them imminently which will include immediate demolition.

“Personally, I regret the loss of this historic building, but its fate was sealed when the unsuitable -and as it turns out unviable. Planning permission was given and it cannot be left to rot as it is.

“Sadly, this is not the only derelict building in Newquay where planning permission has stalled. If it were possible, I would like to see the petition going to our MP rather than Cornwall Council since a change in national law is required.

“Our MP is well aware of the problems as he is represented on the working party, and such a petition could give him a useful tool in his discussions within Government.”