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Neighbours in Nelson's Yard |
Tube bosses probe hole dug above Northern line
Town Hall urged to seize buildings as neighbours raise safety fears
LONDON Underground has launched an investigation after a landlord dug a massive hole above the Northern line in Camden Town.
Enforcement officers are considering seizing 11-13 Camden High Street from landlord Nicholas Eziefula.
And residents have renewed calls for the Town Hall to compulsorily purchase the buildings, claiming that Mr Eziefula’s excavations have undermined the stability of their neighbouring homes. Mr Eziefula insists his buildings are safe.
A London Underground spokeswoman confirmed yesterday (Wednesday) that it was aware excavation work has been carried out at 11-13 Camden High Street under which the Northern line tunnels run. “An investigation is currently underway,” she added.
The Health and Safety Executive said it had ordered Mr Eziefula to cease all works. In January Mr Eziefula was ordered to fill in an unsafe trench.
In 1990 council officers had to step in after a neighbouring building tilted following excavations at No 13. George Attens, who owns adjoining buildings, said: “It’s been allowed to happen again. The first time we had property damage, this time it will be people.”
Neighbours in Nelson’s Yard, at the back of Camden High Street, claim the hole, and additional work on the two unused buildings, have made their homes unsellable and uninsurable.
Sarah Hayden, who wants to move house, is worried the supports holding up the buildings are too weak and that the buildings could collapse. She added: “If there are buses parked at the lights, there will be many dead. Camden Council should have acted weeks ago.” Another resident, Susan Leverick, said: “All 10 of our homes could fall down tomorrow.”
While the two buildings remain boarded up, neighbouring businesses complain they make the street look dead, putting off customers.
Labour group deputy leader Councillor Theo Blackwell said: “These buildings have a long history. Having seen the site, I was shocked at what was going on. The council should actively pursue a CPO (compulsory purchase order). It looks really precarious. It’s a classic enforcement case for Camden.”
A Town Hall press official said the council had begun legal action earlier in the year, adding: “We obtained a written undertaking he will not carry out any work on-site without council approval.
“We have reminded him we will consider an injunction if he starts works without prior consent. We are reviewing the options to resolve this unsatisfactory situation, which could ultimately involve a CPO if the site is not satisfactorily resolved.”
He said enforcement officers were satisfied with temporary measures to ensure the buildings remains structurally safe and are working with the owner towards more permanent supports.
Mr Eziefula said: “I don’t think there’s anything that’s improper at the moment. There was a mistake that was done and that was rectified immediately.
“If you want to confirm that the place is safe check with Camden Council.” |
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