Lamb House boarded up ahead of likely sale to recoup unpaid rates

Up high, the cracked tiles on the front roof are still broken, and there has been no attempt to place a tarpaulin over the glaring hole in the roof.

The Department of Environment and Science said that under Queensland’s Heritage Act, the owner of the property, Joy Lamb, must take steps to prevent deterioration.

“Owners of heritage-listed places are responsible for their management and preservation, and the Act obliges owners to undertake essential repairs and maintenance to prevent damage or deterioration to these places,” a spokesman said.

“On 12 October, 2020, the Department of Environment and Science issued a repair and maintenance notice under the Queensland Heritage Act requiring Mrs Lamb to make the building secure.”

At least the grass around the property, built between 1901-02, has recently been mowed.

In the backyard an upturned claw-foot bath sits beneath a Hills Hoist in view of plants growing from ornate chimney pots.

Home was built for prominent Brisbane draper John Lamb in the Queen Anne style and has remained in the family’s hands.

The red-brick house has been listed on the Queensland Heritage Register since October 1992.

In June 2019, council and the Queensland government became nervous that the federation-era property and its grounds could become developed so a temporary development ban was placed on it.

Last August, council decided to call in $321,000 worth of rates owed by Mrs Lamb. She and her family were given until December to begin the repayments.

Council finance chairman Adam Allan said selling properties due to overdue rates was always a last resort.

“It only follows multiple attempts and options for the outstanding rates to be paid,” Cr Allan said. “We hope the outstanding rates are paid.

“If the rates are not paid, the property will be listed for auction in the first half of this year, which would be in accordance with the City of Brisbane Regulation 2012.”

The sale proceeds would be used to pay outstanding land tax, rates and fees, with the remainder to be given to the owner in accordance with council regulations.