Derelict Sites Complaint Form

GUIDANCE FOR COMPLETING DERELICT SITES COMPLAINT FORM

please read carefully before completing the form

1. Wexford County Council’s Role

Wexford County Council is responsible for dealing with derelict sites in its area. Under the Derelict Sites Act 1990, Local Authorities can force owners to clean up these sites. The Act allows Local Authorities to prosecute owners who do not comply with notices served, to acquire land compulsorily and to carry out the necessary work themselves and charge the owners for the cost.

Local Authorities have similar powers as regards dangerous structures.

2. What is a derelict site?

Under the Derelict Sites Act 1990 (as amended), a derelict site means any land which detracts, or is likely to detract, to a material degree, from the amenity, character or appearance of land in the neighbourhood of the land in question because of the following:

• The existence on the land in question of structures which are ruinous, derelict or dangerous condition; or
• The neglected, unsightly or objectionable condition of the land or any structures on the land in question; or
• The presence, deposit or collection on the land in question, of any litter, rubbish, debris or waste, except where the presence, deposit or collection of such litter, rubbish, debris or waste results from the exercise of a right conferred by or under statute or by common law.

3. What is not a derelict site matter?

The Derelict Sites Team does not investigate civil matters, for example:

• Land or ownership disputes.
• Trespass.
• Private nuisance (noise, vandalism, anti-social behaviour etc.)