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In the year 2000, there were 10,700 reported incidences of arson in such properties across the UK alone, that resulted in call outs to the Fire Service. It is thought that this figure is just the tip of the iceberg, as it is not known how many smaller fires that did not get hold, occurred. Within the Babergh district, we currently have approximately 1,000 empty residential properties and 322 vacant commercial premises.
Babergh's main concern is with long term vacant premises as these can lead to a number of concerns for the communities in which they are situated. The main concerns are listed below;
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Arson
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Health and Safety to the public in general
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Health and Safety to the persons who access these buildings either lawfully or unlawfully
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They increase the 'fear of crime'
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They can lead to the degeneration of an area
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They can become havens for those dependant on drugs or alcohol
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They can become occupied by squatters
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They become a meeting place for youngsters.
The individual owners of these properties have a responsibility to the wider community to maintain their properties in a suitable manner, and to ensure that they are not responsible for a decline in standards of the neighbourhood with in which they are located.
If you are aware of any buildings that are open to access, look to be dangerous or are in a dilapidated state, whether they be commercial or residential, we want to know about them. Please give us address details of the property, its condition and any additional details that you may be aware of with regards to their owner. |