Liverpool Council has initiated “substantial” debt recovery from a car park firm in the city centre.
Amid the ongoing back and forth between the local authority and the Elliot Group regarding unpaid rent for two and a half years, it has been confirmed that the process to recover lost monies has begun in relation to Beetham Plaza car park. In response to a question submitted by Cllr Nick Small to the strategic development and housing committee, the council said in a written response that negotiations had begun between the two parties.
Earlier this month, it was revealed Liverpool Council claimed property developer Elliot Lawless was invoiced for outstanding bills worth £245,000 over the city centre car park. A spokesperson for Mr Lawless said he had not been billed during the 30 month period but would pay now that he had been 'finally' been invoiced.
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In its written response to Cllr Small’s question ahead of next week’s meeting, the council said: “Following the accrual of substantial arrears because of non-payment of rent by Beetham Plaza Car Park Ltd (BCP) for considerable period, combined with concerns raised relating to repair and maintenance obligations being met, the council has initiated the debt recovery process against BCP.
“BCP and the Council continue to negotiate with a view to reaching a settlement of these arrears, maintenance and repair liabilities and associated charges. If no agreement can be reached the council will consider progress further with its enforcement and recovery procedures.”
Cllr Small raised the issue of the condition of the car park during this month’s meeting of the committee. He said: “The car park desperately needs capital investment.
"It feels insecure and feels unsafe. Residents have complained that cars have been vandalised and people have been rough sleeping.
"The car park is not fit for purpose. The residential lease holders are paying more than they should to maintain it under the service charge."
Cabinet member Cllr Sarah Doyle conceded the matter "should have been dealt with a while ago.” She added: “I am glad that is has been raised and it is being dealt with now.”
Cllr Doyle told the meeting the council needed to be “really on the ball” with recovering the funds and it has “gone on for far too long.”
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