Dilapidation Bill moves through Second Stage
Date published:
Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister, Andrew Muir MLA, today moved the Second Stage of the Dilapidation Bill in the Assembly.
The Bill aims to provide district councils with a modern, consistent and fit for purpose Northern Ireland-wide enforcement regime to deal with the negative impact of dilapidated and dangerous buildings, and neglected sites which reflects the powers already available to enforcement bodies in the rest of the UK.
The Bill’s other key proposal is to significantly enhance the cost recovery powers available to councils, making the option of them carrying out the relevant works themselves much more viable.
Speaking after MLAs voted to approve the Bill, Minister Muir said: “Dilapidated buildings can spoil the appearance of our neighbourhoods, can be a risk to public safety and can attract antisocial behaviour, all to the detriment of local communities. That's why it’s essential to strengthen the response to this problem through robust legislation.
“This Bill would give councils powers to compel those responsible for these sites to take appropriate remedial action or allow the council to take the action itself and recoup its costs.
“These measures will ultimately ensure that local people can take pride in their neighbourhoods, helping to deliver thriving town centres and village squares that are attractive places to live, work and visit.”
Notes to editors:
- The Dilapidation Bill was introduced in the Assembly on 23 June 2025.
- The Dilapidation Bill now moves to Committee Stage.
- The Bill aims to confer functions on district councils to provide them with a modern, fit for purpose regime to tackle dilapidated / dangerous buildings and sites, including a series of notices, offences, penalties and appeals.
- District councils currently lack consistent powers in this area but the Bill seeks to provide all councils with the power to take steps requiring buildings / land to be cleaned up when their condition adversely affects the amenity of the area.
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