THE owner of a run-down Stroud shop has vowed to either carry out vital work or sell the premises before the end of the Month.

The former Smith and Lee shop, at 15 High Street, which has been derelict for a several years, has often attracted complaints from traders and shoppers who want to see it developed.

Earlier this year Frank Faryab, who owns the Grade II listed building, was sent an enforcement notice by Stroud District Council ordering the necessary work be carried out.

Councillors also decided to issue a Compulsory Purchase Order for the local authority to buy the building if work wasn't completed soon.

Although the deadline has lapsed Mr Faryab said he will start work or sell the building before the end of January.

"There are several parties interested in buying the shop but at the moment I'm not sure whether I will sell it or develop it myself," he said.

"I've owned the building for a few years and I've not yet done anything to it because there was no urgency to do it."

Anne Macintosh, spokesman for the Stroud Preservation Trust, said the council should act quickly to protect the building.

She said: "We've always said to the council if they took action to buy the property we would be willing to enter into a back-to-back agreement to take it on.

"It's vital something is done soon as the building is in a very poor condition and it's also a big plot so could really add to Stroud High Street if developed."