A DISTRICT council has moved to make a compulsory purchase of a derelict house which has been empty for more than 12 years.

Tendring District Council intends to buy 11 Berkeley Road, in Clacton, to improve the street scene and surr-ounding environment. The council will also carry out the necessary repairs to the property – with all the funding coming from section 106 money received from developers as part of their planning permission.

Enforcement action has been taken in the past in an effort to keep the property secure and safe, replacing fences and dealing with tons of rubbish.

Paul Honeywood, cabinet member for housing, said: “Ward members have received numerous complaints from residents living nearby. The council now has little option but a compulsory purchase.”