Greenwich council have come under fire for neglecting Plumstead High Street and leaving old, dilapidated buildings unchallenged.

The state of disrepair of 64 Plumstead High Street in particular has frustrated locals who want to know why the council haven’t acted sooner on the issue.

A residents group called Plumstead and Abbey Wood Regeneration Committee (PARC), consisting of 25 members, to try get something done about the state of their high street.

Johnny Beverton, a member of PARC, said: “Plumstead High Street has been neglected for some time now and one only needs to take to social media to see that locals and newcomers alike are becoming increasingly frustrated with the seeming lack of activity or dialogue from the council.

“The state of some of the buildings is an ongoing concern and has been for some time now, with blatant disregard by owners for the state of their properties contributing to a negative atmosphere and lack of civic pride.”

PARC members believe the council should be using their powers to force property owners to tidy their land up, citing the Section 215 Town and Country Planning Act of 1990.

The act gives local councils the power to force property owners to clean land when its condition adversely affects the amenity of the area.

Mr Beverton said: “In nearby Newham, the council took a hardline approach with their Linear Gateway Project, requiring businesses on the Romford road to clear up their act and locals want the same approach with Plumstead High Street and surrounding areas.

“Greenwich Council have S215 powers to require neglected building owners to improve and need to show a concrete plan of action to locals.

“With Crossrail arriving in nearby Woolwich and Abbey Wood in just under two years Plumstead often feels like the poor relation.

“Locals want a High Street they can frequently visit, be proud of, contribute to and spend money. The Plumstead Urban Framework document released recently gave a nod to this and we want transparency and the opportunity to be involved in consultations.

“Plumstead has a thriving community of people who really care and PARC are looking forward to taking a proactive approach working with the council to secure ongoing progress.”

A Greenwich council spokesperson said: The Royal Borough of Greenwich is investing in Plumstead, providing state-of-the-art leisure facilities in the heart of the town, and ensuring that improved transport to the east of the borough delivers real economic benefits.

We are aware of residents’ concerns about the condition of some buildings along Plumstead High Street. That’s why we are encouraging landowners and their tenants to look after their buildings in advance of any enforcement action and are exploring funding opportunities for improvements.”