Scaffolding that has plagued a town for seven years could be removed after a claim was made at the High Court.

Lewes District Council confirmed it had lodged the claim against the owners of the “eyesore” Talland Parade scaffolding in Broad Street, Seaford, on the grounds of common public nuisance.

The council believes it has a “good case” based on the unreasonable duration of the development works at Talland Parade, as well as the adverse impact on Seaford residents.

The site received planning permission for ten flats in 2012 but has remained largely untouched ever since.

James MacCleary, leader of the council, said: “After years of hard work, I now hope that the High Court will reward the patience of residents in Seaford and bring an overdue end to this most unfortunate saga. 

“The owner of the building has badly misjudged the resolve of this council and local people to finally see the back of their eyesore scaffolding.”

The Argus: A drone shot of the scaffolding in SeafordA drone shot of the scaffolding in Seaford (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

The council says it has “examined every legal avenue to address this nuisance” and has taken advice from a barrister specialising in this type of dispute.

A trial date has not been confirmed yet.

Councillor Zoe Nicholson, deputy leader of the council, said: “The owner has acted with a total disregard for the interests of businesses and shops in the vicinity of Talland Parade and used legal loopholes to frustrate every effort to get the scaffolding taken down, but not anymore.”

The Argus: Gary Bedford, one of the business owners underneath the structureGary Bedford, one of the business owners underneath the structure

Councillor Stephen Gauntlett, Cabinet Member for Planning, said: “This latest development is good news, but we won’t rest until the wretched scaffolding is dismantled. 

 “Above all at this time, I want to thank Seaford Residents’ Voice, Seaford Town Council and all others who have provided invaluable evidence in support of the council’s claim and I would also thank our legal team for their colossal effort to get us to this point.”

The owner has been approached for comment.