BIDDEFORD — The property at 56 South St. is notorious.

It abuts 58 South St., which is owned by convicted murderer Rory Holland, who is serving two life sentences for the June 2009 murders of Biddeford brothers Derek and Gage Greene.

On Tuesday, the City Council approved a plan to purchase 56 South St. for $25,000 from the owner, Janice Appel, who is believed to have had a relationship with Holland. Once the sale, which should be final in the next two weeks, is completed, the city will solicit bids to tear down the building.

The demolition will take place in April or May, said city attorney Keith Jacques.

“I must say, this is long overdue,” said City Councilor Bob Mills.

“There is a sense of urgency on this,” said City Council President Rick Laverriere.

Many in the city have considered both properties an eyesore for many years. Most, if not all, the utilities are turned off in the buildings, and Appel’s property has been vacant for a number of years. The city Code’s Enforcement Office has posted that it is unsafe for habitation.

“It will eliminate an eyesore in this neighborhood,” said Jacques. “Once it’s demolished it will create some green space that will open up views into the park.”

The Williams Court Park is behind the Appel property.

In time, Jacques said, the city could consider creating alternative pedestrian or vehicle traffic to the park through the property.

Many are also anxious to get rid of Holland’s property, which has been vacant since his arrest for the murders on June 30, 2009.

“We’re exploring options we have with respect to that property,” said Jacques.

— Staff Writer Dina Mendros can be contacted at 282-1535, Ext. 324 or dmendros@journaltribune.com.