The much-maligned Tricorn House has been sold, according to Stroud MP Siobhan Baillie.
Guernsey-based Millville Limited were the last known owners, but Ms Baillie claims the building changed ownership following a phone conversation with property developer Mr John Wellfair.
“Mr Wellfair has told me the building is sold and his involvement ceases once utilities and security arrangements are transferred,” revealed Ms Baillie, who had previously called for the building to be demolished.
In a letter, Ms Baillie has asked Mr Wellfair to pass her details to the new owners: “I know the town is desperate to see Tricorn House demolished or redeveloped. The death of a much-loved local teenager at the site has only compounded that desperation. I will not stop doing everything I can to bring about change.
“The council also needs to be able to liaise with the owners about security and maintenance for the building to prevent further incidents.”
Ms Baillie has called for a positive outcome for the building, which was built in 1972.
She said: “Given the history of the building and how many times I have been assured it has new developers in recent years only to see no real progress, you will understand why I want to see evidence of the position. We need clear action at the site before I rest on the issue.”
The building was last occupied more than 20 years ago by the Department for Social Security and has been empty ever since.
In 2008, Stroud District Council attempted a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO)on the building to “secure the removal of a prominent eyesore, to provide employment and to promote the regeneration of the area”.
Supporting the CPO at the time Stroud Civic Society at the time recommended the demolition of the building.
The order was denied and the building has remained empty, slowly deteriorating for a further decade.
