Warwick District Council is today (January 15) serving a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) on the owner of the site of the medieval Leper Hospital situated in Saltisford, Warwick.

Comprising The Master's House, St Michael's Chapel and an Ancient Monument, the site has lain in ruins for decades with no definitive plans coming forward for its regeneration.

Following years of Council and Historic England funded studies, plans and funding are now in place to regenerate the site. However, the owner has not been prepared to sell the land at what the Council considers to be a realistic amount.

The remains lie to the north of Saltisford Road 100m north west of the Vittle Drive / Ansell Road cross roads. It is on Historic England's Heritage At Risk Register as 'very bad.'

Warwick District Council's Portfolio Holder for Development Councillor John Cooke commented; "Although I'm disappointed that we've had to take this action, it is a very important step in ensuring that this part of Warwick's heritage is protected and restored.

"I'm grateful for the support we've received from West Midlands Historic Buildings Trust and Historic England who will be our key partners in taking the project forward."

The owner of the site now has 21 days to object to the Order with the matter ultimately being settled by the Secretary of State.