AN eyesore in the centre of Dursley could finally be transformed after years of false starts. 

The grot-spot which borders May Lane and Prospect Place near the library has been vacant for several years but could now be used for affordable housing.

According to a council document from 2019, the site could accommodate at least 12 to 15 homes.

Ownership of the site is complicated as it is split between 20 landowners and negotiations to develop the area have so far always stalled. 

But this week, Stroud District Council announced fresh moves in partnership with the town council which could finally end the deadlock.

Council officers have started the process of engaging with the landowners in a bid to kick-start a housing scheme.

SDC owns a single-storey building on the site named the Electric Garage which was formally two homes.

The building has been vacant for several years and is rapidly deteriorating. 

Another council document says: “The site (of the two homes) is derelict, has structural problems and continues to deteriorate, creating an eyesore and is an underutilised asset.” 

Several bids to regenerate the site have been made in the past, including a plan in 2014 in which one developer wanted to demolish the Electric Garage site to make way for flats. 

Another planning application was submitted in 2016 by one landowner for 16 homes and three business units on the site but was withdrawn due to disagreements between the owners.

The site is included in the council’s plan to build at least 200 affordable and social housing properties each year. 

Mattie Ross, chair of the council’s housing committee, said: “I’m delighted that plans to progress the transformation of this valuable land are being advanced with the support of Dursley Town Council.” 

Lucas Schoemaker, housing committee vice chair, said: “This is a great location for much needed new affordable homes in the heart of the town.

“Our council plan supports the delivery of key regeneration sites across the district, especially brownfield sites and long-term empty properties, for local jobs, homes, community facilities and green spaces.”

Dursley mayor Symon Ackroyd, said: “I look forward to the final option being created and agreed in consultation with Dursley Town Council and residents.

“This will then ensure the development meets the needs of the town and enhances this neglected area of land within our town centre.”

Officers will begin consultations once options have been identified.