PRESS RELEASES

Kirklees Council has moved to secure the future of one of Dewsbury’s landmark buildings by making a compulsory purchase order for Pioneer House.

The move follows the failure of its owners to take all the necessary steps to protect the Grade II listed building following statutory notices from the Council.

The Council had attempted to ensure the owners carried out a number of repairs through an Urgent Works Notice earlier this year and this was followed by a Repairs Notice, that has ultimately led to the compulsory purchase order being made.

The compulsory purchase documents were sent out this week and there are also site notices around the building confirming that the compulsory purchase order has been made.

Those affected by a compulsory purchase are entitled to object to it and this would result in the need for a public inquiry before a final decision to confirm the Order is made by the Secretary of State. The owners may also apply to the magistrates court to stop the compulsory purchase proceeding but the council would robustly defend such a challenge.

Councillor Mehboob Khan, Leader of the Council [or Cllr David Sheard] said:
“Pioneer House is too important a building to remain in its current condition, and worsen over the coming winter. The Council has done all it can and given appropriate warnings and deadlines to the owner but they have failed to take the steps needed. A compulsory purchase is not a process that the Council begins lightly but the building is too important to be left without the care and maintenance it requires and deserves.”

Councillor Paul Kane, Chair of the Dewsbury Regeneration Board, said:
“We cannot allow our town’s landmark building to fall into this condition and the owners must be held responsible for its maintenance. For a listed building, this is particularly worrying and must be stopped. The people of Dewsbury deserve better for their town and for Pioneer House in particular.”

The Council has started working with regeneration specialists to see how Pioneer House can once again be an important part of the town.

Ros Kerslake, Chief Executive of The Prince’s Regeneration Trust, said:
“This is an important building in an outstanding conservation area at the heart of Dewsbury that is rapidly falling into decay. The Prince’s Regeneration Trust is delighted to be a member of the team assisting the Council in their commitment and determination to bring about a solution which assures that this building is rescued and new life is brought to this part of Dewsbury.”

Jan Anderson, Executive Director of Environment for Yorkshire Forward comments: "Pioneer House is hugely important for the economic renaissance of Dewsbury. Yorkshire Forward will continue to work with Kirklees Council to ensure the successful redevelopment of this key site."

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