Thirty-five flats at Birch Court in Dunstable, acquired by Central Bedfordshire Council for £6.25m in 2022, have remained empty for more than four years. The council has confirmed that no one has ever lived in the building.
The authority identified "several areas of concern – primarily relating to fire safety, but also build quality" at the time of purchase. Subsequent inspections identified that the building did not meet fire safety requirements, had persistent roof leaks impacting structural integrity, and that windows and doors failed to meet safety and operational standards.
The council is actively pursuing an insurance claim in relation to these issues, which remains unresolved. Steven Watkins, the Independent executive member for assets, business and housing, stated that significant construction defects were identified after taking possession of the building, following more detailed inspections.
Security for the empty premises has cost almost £40,000 since 2022, at a rate of £190 per week. Central Bedfordshire Council stated it cannot move residents into a building that is not safe and is awaiting a response from the insurance company.