Stoke-on-Trent City Council is supporting the police with their investigations after the remnants of a cannabis farm were found in a derelict former council building.

Police and forensics were inside the derelict Burslem Local Centre building, on the corner of Keates Street and Brick House Street, on Tuesday morning when the investigation began but no plants remained at the site. 

Meanwhile the council has now confirmed it no longer owns the building after it was sold last year and the council leader has issued a warning to landlords and building owners in the city.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council leader, Jane Ashworth, said: "We are supporting the police with their investigations. We can confirm the building is privately owned and was sold last year.

"Let this be a warning to all landlords and building owners – if you are found with a grow in a property, criminal action will be taken against you.

"Residents, if you see something that doesn't seem right, or increased activity around a property – report it. CrimeStoppers is anonymous 0800 555 111, or speak to your ward councillor."

No arrests have yet been made by Staffordshire Police in connection with the discovery.

On Tuesday, a spokesperson for the force said: "At around 7.25am today (Tuesday 13 May) officers patrolling the Burslem area came across an insecure building near Moorland Road.

"Officers went inside and found evidence of a cannabis grow previously being there.

"No plants were found but we're investigating to find out who was responsible.

"Anyone who has any information which may help the investigation is asked to contact us. Call 101, quoting incident 115 of 13 May, or use Live Chat on our website.

"To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

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