A notice has been served on a dangerous ghost building in Kilwinning which has become an eyesore and a target for vandals.
And Kilwinning councillor Scott Davidson, who raised concerns about the abandoned site in Fergushill Road, has welcomed the move.
The decision was taken at a planning committee meeting to secure the building.
The former dental surgery building is currently vacant, has been subject to previous break-ins, and become an eyesore in recent years.
It is considered that the condition of the land and the vacant building is harmful to the amenity of the surrounding area and poses a safety risk to neighbouring residents.
Complaints were received by planning services raising concerns about the condition of the building and site. Officers carried out an inspection and contacted the owner to raise these concerns.
It was reported that the building was not secure and had been subject to issues involving smashed windows and fire-raising.
Further complaints were received that there was a missing panel to the door which was allowing continued access to the building without restriction.
Planning permission was granted in February 2021 for the demolition of the building and the erection of six semi-detached houses to include the formation of access road/parking and provision of garden ground/landscaping.
The development has neither commenced nor has any site clearance been initiated. The building's fabric has deteriorated in recent years.
The proposed amenity notice would see all broken glass, graffiti and litter removed from the site.
Councillor Davidson, cabinet member for place, said: “The building is a danger to young people who are entering it and hanging about. It is open to wilful fire raising and all kinds of anti-social behaviour.
“The windows have been broken into and there has been anti-social behaviour. This building has to be secured for public safety.”
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