Editor:
The issue of neglected and abandoned properties needs to be addressed more seriously.
In my part of Surrey, the number of homes that are no longer lived in is the root of many problems, such as illegal dumping, petty crime, squatting and a general degradation of the surrounding neighbourhood.
Often these properties are owned by developers. As such, they should behave as responsible neighbours.
If these properties are not being maintained then they should be demolished ASAP. The local and provincial authorities need to take action by demanding that owners respect the neighbourhoods they buy in to or pay stiff penalties.
Michael Gibbs, Surrey