A derelict house is to be bought by Falkirk Council after its dead owner's family could not be traced.

Neighbours complained that the house, in an upmarket part of Bonnybridge, is a blot on the landscape as it has lain empty since its owner died in 2003.

The Falkirk Herald reported that the detached bungalow is to be bought by the council in a compulsory purchase order.

The council then intends to sell it on.

Falkirk Council's policy and resources committee was told on Tuesday that the property has been abandoned, as efforts to trace the daughter, who should inherit the estate as she is next-of-kin, were not fruitful.

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The environmental health department, Sheriff Officers and the Crown Office have taken their search to Gateshead, North Shields, Inverness and Midlothian, but to no avail.

The house and gardens have fallen into such a state of disrepair their condition has become a source of local concern and neighbours have complained for years.

The three-bedroomed house is boarded up and does not represent any immediate risk to the public.

The council will need approval from the Scottish Government before taking action under the 1987 Housing (Scotland) Act.

The property could come under council ownership within a year and be resold, but not be made available for council housing tenants.

Any proceeds after the costs of the operation are met will be side aside as potential compensation to any party with a right to claim on the estate.

(NE)