Demolition of derelict block delayed again
The long-awaited demolition of derelict office block in Stockton has been delayed again due to an ongoing legal problem.
Bizzy B Management, which owns the decrepit and long-empty Billingham House in Belasis Avenue, are lodging a further legal challenge to try to keep the building standing, despite having lost a High Court appeal to allow them to refurbish it.
Stockton Council was given permission to demolish the building, which used to be the regional headquarters for ICI, earlier this year. Demolition contractors will now not be allowed to start work on the site until 20 January at the earliest, while the final attempt at an appeal is heard.
The council's representative for regeneration and transport, Mike Smith, said that they were very keen to see the building torn down and want to see the site regenerated, for the sake of everyone living and working around the it.
"Bizzy B continue to challenge the legal rulings of some of the country's highest courts, despite having so far failed to convince these of their case," he said. "They have had every opportunity to achieve a positive outcome for this site and now local residents, community organisations and councillors have had more than enough. We all want to see this blot on the landscape removed."
Bizzy B Management has not commented on the matter.
