The eyesore of Webb's Hotel was an urgent matter on a Caradon council agenda yesterday afternoon, as complaints about its derelict appearance flood in.

Members of the planning services committee studied a report on the Liskeard hotel by Caradon conservation officer, David Moore. Residents have pointed out that the new-look Parade only serves to highlight further the decrepit state of the hotel.

The committee debated five recommendations that included proposals for a compulsory purchase order being issued - if all else fails - on the owner, Midlands toy-factory owner, Mike Austin.

Additionally a repair notice could be issued, with the council studying the property to ascertain alternative uses, restoration costs and valuations. This would include the South West Regional Development Agency which has advised the council to purchase the hotel, and which could provide funding towards this. Such a process would include commissioning consultants to determine costs of regenerating the building.

It was agreed that a group involving officers and a member representative should travel to the Midlands to discuss the issue with Mr Austin, and press him on the need for action.