One of the last pieces of the Stobswell regeneration jigsaw could soon be in place.
Scottish ministers have given the go-ahead for the compulsory purchase of an eyesore shop in Princes Street which has lain empty for many years.
Following a public inquiry, planning reporter Ronald Jackson recommended confirmation of the order on the derelict Buy Right store. Shop owner May Lai Ng had submitted an objection to the proposed order.
Outlining the lengthy history of the battle to have the shop refurbished, Mr Jackson said the council presented a ”compelling” case against a background of ”numerous” broken pledges to clear, renovate and market the store.
He said: ”The derelict appearance of the order property has a major adverse impact on the environment of the neighbourhood and detracts significantly from the appearance and commercial well being of the surrounding area.
”The state of the property also undermines the council’s regeneration efforts in the Stobswell area.”
He added: ”Despite numerous promises that the property would be refurbished, no works have been carried out. Despite claims that the property would be put on the market in February 2009, this has not been done.”
Mr Jackson said: ”The owner failed to respond to recorded delivery letters regarding the hearing. She was not present or represented at the hearing.
”I consider that her objection to the order carries little or no weight.”
The ground-floor shop and cellar has been vacant and unused for many years and the occupant of a neighbouring property had contacted the council to express concern about its condition.
The inquiry also heard the council was unable to carry out a survey of the shop last year because it was full of shelving and ”assorted rubbish” and a promise to clear it came to nothing.
Flats above the shop are occupied and the council had to board up the door to prevent intruders in the interests of public safety.
Mr Jackson was told the property has not operated as a shop since 1998 and no rates have been paid on the property since then.
”From my observations on my site visit it is apparent that the property is in a severe state of disrepair,” he said. ”The undisputed evidence of the council is that it also constitutes a public safety risk.”
Dundee City Council plans to use cash available in the regeneration fund to refurbish the shop and then offer it for sale or let, he added.
A spokesman said: ”The council is now completing the legal process surrounding this property.”