Calls for former nightclub to be demolished

A former nightclub which was left gutted in an arson attack one year ago has been described as an ‘eyesore’ by business owners and politicians who have called for it to be demolished.

The former Sweet Nightclub on Limavady’s Catherine Street was completely destroyed by a fire on May 30 2024.

At the time, more than 50 firefighters tackled the blaze.

A 12 year-old boy was later prosecuted for arson and burglary with intent to steal.

Since the blaze the area around the building has been cordoned off and many local businesses continue to be impacted.

Limavady Turkish Barber Emporium are neighbours to the derelict building and have had to temporarily switch buildings as a result. 

Haley Tepe from the Limavady barbers has expressed her dissatisfaction with the situation a year on from the fire. 

“We have been directly affected by this whole situation. This has massively affected the business. We have had to temporarily move premises around the corner to Linenhall Street. We have lost our entire team of barbers. It’s not only our business, multiple shops along the street have been and continue to be affected,” she said. 

“There has been a downturn in employment as a result within the town. It has been an absolute nightmare. Catherine Street was such a thriving, busy street. The businesses still going now have zero parking for customers or people to drop in. The area has become a real danger and eyesore in the community. Our business grew from there and we want to be back there as soon as possible.” 

Haley has now called for the building to be demolished. 

“The derelict building needs to come down, not only is it an eyesore but it is also affecting our building. The side retaining wall of our building has to be taken down because it is badly damaged. The roof also has to be replaced due to cracks. In order for all that to be done the building has to go because there is a huge steel structure that runs the length of that and it is pulling our wall with it. This needs to be done sooner rather than later. We know that things take time, we have been really patient but we are running out of patience at this stage. This is our livelihood. It needs to be dealt with and people need to take responsibility. It’s really not acceptable for this to be left for a full year. People can’t bury their heads any longer. There needs to be change.”

East Derry MLA Alan Robinson said that he shares the public's frustration.

“When I praised the Northern Ireland Fire Service in the Summer of 2024 on the floor of the Northern Ireland Assembly following the fire on Catherine Street, I never thought that I would be back in the Assembly six months later, never mind one year on calling for all agencies to resolve this matter,” the DUP man said.

“Frustratingly, councils do not have the powers that the general public think they do to immediately carry out clear ups or repairs on derelict and dilapidated privately owned buildings. The legislation that they work under is very narrow in scope and puts the onus onto the owners.  Dilapidation is an issue that I have dealt with on many occasions, many times unsuccessfully,  not just in town centres but also within housing developments but I have repeatedly been told by the local Councils that their legislation used by Councils date back to the mid-19th century. 

“This is a legislative deficit in Northern Ireland compared with other jurisdictions and therefore a new dilapidation bill cannot come soon enough which will supplement outdated powers with new provisions particularly in respect of low level dilapidation and dangerous buildings. This would provide all Councils with a modern fit for purpose province wide enforcement regime to deal with dangerous and neglected buildings. The DAERA Minister has developed a new dilapidation Bill and it is positive that earlier last month he said that he is seeking approval for the introduction of the Bill at a meeting of the Executive. This will be a positive tool not just for Councils but also for traders and residents who have to trade and live beside such sites.”

A spokesperson for Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council said: “Following the fire damage to a building on Catherine Street, Limavady, an independent Structural Engineer assessed the site on behalf of Council.  Upon receipt of the Structural Engineers assessment, the building was deemed unsafe.  In the interests of public safety, Council erected a cordon which resulted in the closure of a section of footpath and several parking bays.

“While the Council acknowledges the inconvenience this may cause, the restriction is necessary to safeguard the public.  Responsibility for the remedial works to the building lies with the property owner. Council does not have the authority to carry out repairs or remedial work to privately owned property without a Court Order.

“A Dangerous Structure notice has been issued to the owner of the property.  Council’s investigation and the necessary statutory procedures to address the dangerous structure are ongoing, although such processes can take time. We appreciate the community’s patience while we continue working to resolve these issues. 

“Public safety remains Council’s highest priority, and we thank residents, visitors and business owners for their understanding and co-operation during this time.”