A Liberal Democrat Councillor has demanded action from the Labour-run Redcar & Cleveland Council to improve the appearance of Kirkleatham Village.

Councillor Eric Howden questioned the Labour Cabinet member last Thursday about what the Council is doing to do justice to this historic village.

A number of Council properties are boarded-up and have been left to decay.

Councillor Eric Howden said:

“Labour’s response was that they are waiting for the Prince’s Trust to meet with them to indicate what the future might be for these buildings.

“But they gave no direction as to what they are actually doing to rectify the problem with empty residential properties. Are they just waiting for “friends” groups to do the Council’s work for it yet again?

“This borough has some brilliant friends groups which work tirelessly and for free, but the Council has a responsibility to take care of its own properties.

“Kirkleatham has residential properties that have been empty for years and are now becoming an eyesore. They do not promote the village’s attractions or encourage future plans.

“Labour seem to be sitting back and waiting for someone else to do the work. Meanwhile they blame everyone but themselves for the problems.”