I have heard from the Council that they are considering the future of the site of the old Fox and Hounds pub on Carshalton High Street.
Their overall aim is to improve the site's appearance, whilst improving the overall amenities in the area. I am told that the Council isn't aware of any structural issues or ground conditions that would impede the development of the site, although the most recent planning approval (C2015/71766) has now expired. This involved the part demolition of the pub, whilst retaining much of the front façade, and rebuilding to a drinking establishment on the ground floor and a series of small flats on the upper floors. Any future development would need a new planning application, although there are none currently in the pipeline.
The Council continues to review the site, and is in ongoing contact with the owner of the site around remedial works that are due to be carried out, although these have been put on hold due to the ongoing pandemic. That said, Council officers have made clear to the site owner that it cannot be allowed to fall into further disrepair once restrictions are lifted.
Planning enforcement continues to require owners to maintain their properties to an acceptable standard, and the Council will use the further powers available to them if required, although clearly external factors like COVID and vandalism are outside of the landowner's control.
I very much look forward to seeing a suitable application being brought forward in due course to bring this central site back into use.