The derelict former British Home Stores building on Bridge Street has been described as a “continuing nightmare” for local people by Stratford District Council deputy leader George Cowcher. The Bridge Street premises, once home to the town’s BHS store, have stood empty since 2016. The building was bought three years later by Beyond Retail Property Fund, a Guernsey-based company, but has remained unused since. Cowcher said the lack of progress had left the council feeling as though it was “being held to ransom” by the owners. The councillor said the government’s move to give local authorities stronger compulsory purchase and high street auction powers could help the council take a more active role.