WARRINGTON South MP Andy Carter has again written to the Borough Council for an update on the future of the Grade II Listed Grappenhall Rectory, which local residents have described as a “blot on the landscape.”
The condition of the Historic England listed building has been deteriorating for a number of years with local residents becoming more and more frustrated by the appearance of the building which has been targeted by vandals and arsonists.
Local resident Brian Cain said: “I am fed up with this blot on the landscape.
“Despite trying for many years to get Warrington Borough Council to ensure that they carry out the required duty of care to protect listed buildings no action has been taken.
“I am hoping that Andy Carter can finally achieve a breakthrough for our village community.”
He added: “It is 30 years since the Sutton family purchased the property and we all looked forward to seeing it restored to its former glory.
“This of course never happened and the council were never firm enough with the owners who stonewalled at every opportunity for the next ten years. I got involved 20 years ago and have involved every Member of Parliament and councillors ever since. Grappenhall deserves better!”
Mr Carter said: “I completely understand how residents feel about the state of the Vicarage. The lack of interest from the Council for 27 years is the real frustration here, when they had an opportunity to use their powers they didn’t.
“Since the estate entered Probate three years ago, following the death of the absent owners, there are limited options available to mandate works until the Probate Court reaches a conclusion. “My understanding is that there are ongoing issues about the Estate of the deceased, which includes other assets in addition to the property in Grappenhall. I’ve asked the Council to make contact with the Lawyers to get an update and will keep residents updated on progress.”
