266Possession of building

266 Possession of building

(1)  If any occupier of a building or temporary structure fails to allow any person to do work under section 265 , a council may take proceedings under the Justices Act 1959 to obtain possession of the building or temporary structure.

(2)  On the hearing of a complaint, a justice may order the occupier to give the council possession of the building or temporary structure within a prescribed period.

(3)  If a person fails to comply with an order under subsection (2) , a justice who made the order may issue a warrant authorising police officers to –

(a) enter into the building or temporary structure by force if necessary and with any assistance they consider necessary; and

(b) eject any person from the building or temporary structure; and

(c) deliver possession of the building or temporary structure to the relevant council.

(4)  A council may remain in possession of a building or temporary structure pursuant to a warrant until the work is completed.