An empty tower block has become an “eyesore” in the centre of an estate, according to neighbours.
Almost 100 tenants were “decanted” from Irlam House in Bootle in June 2018.
Then-owners One Vision – who took ownership of all of Sefton’s tower blocks in 2005 – said at the time that there was not enough current and future demand for this type of accommodation within the local area.
In May 2020, the building was sold to Verum Victum Healthcare (VVHC) who plan to turn the site into assisted living for the elderly.
According to people living nearby, the tower is covered in “ugly” sheeting, which is tearing and breaking off and falling onto the surrounding areas.
Michelle Foxcroft told the ECHO: “It’s an eyesore.
“There are coverings on the building, I think to stop bits of concrete breaking off, but the wind is destroying it. Birds are eating it and god knows what it’s made of.
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“I did contact VVHC via a form on their website but that was months ago and I haven’t had a response.”
New owners VVHC say the wrapping serves “no purpose” and that it will soon be removed, and the building re-clad.
Their spokesman said: “We have asked a contractor to remove the wraps, which serve no statutory purpose and we’re sorry that the wind has caused disturbance for our neighbours.
“We are concluding the final legal and planning obligations before we begin work on transforming Irlam House into a lovely new community facility which will mean that local elderly people will no longer be decanted to Southport when they need care in their golden years.
“As part of our redevelopment the building will be re-clad and fully refurbished and will become the community asset that its original developers always wanted.”
Plans include new community facilities on two additional penthouse floors, including a communal lounge and top floor restaurant.
There will also be viewing decks, a gym and yoga room, cinema room, craft rooms and beauty therapy rooms.
