Conservation areas
Section 215 Notices
A local authority may also use its general planning powers to serve a Section 215 Notice on the owner (or occupier) of any land or building whose condition is adversely affecting the amenity of the area, particularly within a conservation area.
Such a notice requires the person responsible to clean up the site or building, or the local authority can carry out the work itself and reclaim the cost from the owner.
Section 215 is a relatively straightforward power that can deliver important, substantial and lasting improvements to amenity.
Local authorities are actively encouraged to use these powers where necessary.