Moree burnt out homes: council to demolish burnt out homes and chase the owners for the costs

The delapidated homes have been a thorn in the side of Moree Plains Shire Council and have been ranked in order of risk by Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) representatives.

At least 60 properties were recently inspected on foot and by drones to give a clear picture of each home's risk, it's removal priority, structural integrity and the estimated demolition costs.

On the ground with the team was Moree Plains Shire Council's planning and community development acting director James Maxwell.

"The reports provide Council with an overview of the issue and more specifically highlight a list of priorities for Council to action and a risk-based approach to commencing the removal of these houses", he said.

"Air monitoring also returned negative results of airborne fibres at all locations tested, indicating that the dilapidated houses present a low risk to the community when left undisturbed.

"Although Council facilitated the removal of a high priority house in December last year, the legislative requirements, quantity of houses and costs associated with demolition is delaying the removal of the remaining dwellings."

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The council has since decided to ensure the owners of the properties take responsibility for the repair or demolition of the homes.

If the owners aren't cooperative, the council will undertake the demolition works itself and chase the owners for costs, Mr Maxwell said.

The houses were assessed by a multi-agency team.