A MAN has been ordered to repair part of a collapsed house or demolish it.

Rossendale Council were made aware of a collapsed house in Burnley Road, Rawtenstall in 2016.

The damage revealed a flood-damaged culvert and involved the evacuation of three neighbouring properties.

A council spokesman said: "Since the local authority was initially made aware of the issue in April 2016 we have requested that the owner make the property safe on numerous occasions.

"As no action was taken a court order was secured in October requiring the owner to obviate the danger or demolish the dangerous part of the building.

"A longer period for compliance with this order was agreed by the council, to enable the owner to discuss liabilities for repair with adjacent land owners.

"The property is not only dangerous but has also meant the evacuation of three neighbouring properties.

"As it is privately owned, property repairs are the responsibility of the owner and were they to be carried out, would enable the culvert to be assessed properly by the Environment Agency.

"However, the council understands that the owner does not have buildings insurance.

"The council ultimately remains keen to secure a satisfactory resolution to this issue for all parties and is still working with those involved to identify whether there is another solution to safely and securely repair the culvert."