AN “eyesore” homes on the A127 is set to go under the hammer and be auctioned off as the owners face court action over its dilapidated state.

Southend Council has repeatedly pushed for the owners of the home at 25 Prince Avenue, in Westcliff, and is set to take them to court on December 13.

However, the property has now been listed on Rightmove for £175,000 ahead of an auction on December 19.

Owners of the house, were originally ordered by Southend Council to carry out repairs back in December 2022.

Lydia Hyde, Labour councillor for the St Laurence ward, said: “I think that it would be the best result for everyone.

“I don’t think we wanted to punish the owners if they couldn’t take it forward.

“We just want to see that property returned to a lovely family home in the area.

“I think now it has gone up for sale, and it is going to auction, suggests the owners have made that decision not viable for them to continue.

“So, let’s get it back, sort it from being an eyesore, and finally give relief to local residents.

“I think it is an opportunity for lots of people who will be looking at it with ideas and big plans watching homes under the hammer for inspiration!

“It is just good to see progress being made as it has been long a journey. It will be great to see it finally resolved for everyone involved.”

On the Rightmove site, it states only external viewing are available as due to the “poor condition” of the property internal viewings will not be conducted.

It adds that the property is believed to be five-bedrooms but as auctioneers were unable to inspect the property, purchasers are deemed to rely upon “their own enquiries in this respect”.

Tony Cox, Conservative councillor and leader of Southend Council, said: “I am pleased to see some positive action with the home going up for auction.

“Hopefully the building can be put into use quickly to stop it continuing to be a blot on the landscape.”

Tricia Cowdrey, Residents First councillor responsible for the Kursaal ward, added: “I know many have described this building as an eyesore, and I empathise with the residents.

“However, I have sympathy with those who have made plans for improving their homes and who have been hit, not only by the pandemic but the cost-of-living crisis.

“I hope it can be restored to its former usage of a family home as quickly as possible.”