Moray Council could take steps to seize possession of derelict buildings, which are becoming a blight on the community, as a last resort to clean up the region.
A shortlist of 18 eyesore properties that need urgent attention has been drawn up by council planners, including homes, factories and commercial premises spread across the area.
Yesterday, the authority’s planning and regulatory services committee was given an update, in private, about efforts to contact the owners.
Members were told that if attempts to get the buildings cleaned up were thwarted, the authority could opt to implement compulsory purchase orders.
They have taken this action in a bid to attract more investment in the region by sprucing up neighbourhoods.
A report, prepared for the meeting, stated: “In cases where owners cannot be traced or are deceased with no clear beneficiary, it may be necessary for the council to proceed with a compulsory purchase order to resolve the situation.
“Where it is not possible to identify an owner, there are special procedures to follow and every case will be different.
“For any property where a CPO is promoted, the process is quite complex, but in some cases, it may be the only way to achieve a positive outcome.”
Committee members will be given regular updates on the buildings that have been identified.