Enforcement action threatened over wall collapse

The original collapse happened in February 2013 and has still to be fixed

A local authority is being threatened with enforcement action over a long-standing dispute regarding a collapsed wall.

A structural engineer's report in 2021 concluded the original slippage by St Laurence's Church in Ludlow, in February 2013, was most likely caused by a build-up of water.

Because of a dispute between the town council and parochial church council (PCC) over responsibility, only temporary measures have been taken to prop up the wall.

Letters from the respective parties' solicitors have been sent to Ludlow town councillors ahead of a meeting on Monday to discuss the situation.

On behalf of the PCC, Veale Wasbrough Vizards said it had been instructed to take the necessary steps "to achieve a resolution of this longstanding matter".

"We have advised our client that they are not responsible for repairs or other works of maintenance to the collapsed wall nor are they liable to make any financial contribution to the costs thereof," a spokesperson said.

"Due consideration" would be given to proposals for a "timely resolution," the company added.

But added "as matters stand at present, however, and regrettably, our client evidently has no option other than to take enforcement action in order to determine the matter".

In response, Geldards, which is representing Ludlow Town Council, said that the solicitor's letter "lacks the necessary legal particulars to support the assertion of liability".

"The issue of ownership of the wall is central to the question of liability but your letter does not address this or provide any documentation or title evidence to confirm that the relevant section of wall forms part of the churchyard or is otherwise within the PCC's legal responsibility".

It added that it would "respond appropriately" to any formal letter of claim.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.