Plans to bring 'eyesore' building back into use

A long-empty post office building in a Surrey town could finally be brought back into use under new council powers despite concerns over cost, risk and practicality.

Tandridge District councillors approved plans on Thursday to use a Government-backed High Street Rental Auction to force the former Station Avenue site in Caterham to be let.

Members said the building had become a "significant eyesore" and a source of frustration for residents and businesses.

Councillor Rob Spencer said: "You come to Caterham and you're looking at a dead, old building", adding the council had reached "the end of its tether" waiting for it to be occupied.

However, officers warned the situation was complex as the property had multiple owners and high asking rents and sale prices.

They added it was still possible no suitable offers would come forward, even through an auction process.

The project is expected to cost about £15,000, with some money potentially recovered through grants and fees, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Officers also noted the council could not guarantee it would recover costs, with much of the expense tied up in staff time.

Some councillors also raised concerns about where the funding would come from.

However, Councillor Mike Crane backed the proposal, calling it "a no-brainer" and suggested the committee was "over-thinking" the issue.

But Councillor Perry Chotai warned the move could "set a precedent" and criticised the lack of detailed analysis.

Despite reservations, councillors agreed to press ahead with the auction, viewing it as a potential way to revive the town centre.

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