Council brings more than 300 empty homes back into use

In 2021, Telford & Wrekin Council launched its Long-Term Empty Property Strategy to tackle the issue of problematic properties standing empty for too long.

Now, three years on, the council has already brought 312 back into use and is well on its way towards its target of 375 by the summer of 2026.

Figures released by Action on Empties (a nationally recognised charity for tackling empty homes), show that for nearly every 100 homes in Telford and Wrekin there is one empty property, which compares favourably to the average for local authorities, where there is one empty property for every 48 homes.

Of the 312 homes brought back into use, the council has acquired 81 to support vulnerable residents through it Next Steps Accommodation Programme and provide specialist accommodation.

In a report to cabinet on 6 January, members were asked to note the progress made since the strategy launched and reaffirm its support as the work moves forward.

Councillor Richard Overton (Lab), Telford & Wrekin Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Highways, Housing and Enforcement, said:

“Long-term empty properties serve no purpose. Often, they are unkept, fall into disrepair and can attract fly tipping and anti-social behaviour. This is unfair on neighbours and can have a big impact on the local community.

“Three years ago, we decided to take action to support our communities and boost the numbers of homes available for people who want to live in our borough.

“Our Empty Property Team has worked tirelessly in the last three years to work with property owners, use enforcement action where necessary, support our local communities and ultimately turn hundreds of empty properties back into warm and inviting homes.”

In a majority of cases, the Empty Property Team has offered advice and support to property owners, which has resulted in their property being brough back into use. With renovation costs often involved, the team promote the use of the local credit union to offer low-cost loans to help some owners cover the cost of repairs.

The team has also helped people who are beneficiaries of deceased estates and currently have properties sitting empty to go through the probate process to bring homes back into use.

Pic: Telford & Wrekin