East Suffolk sees decrease in number of long-term empty properties
The local council has been working to reuse these buildings or land to form part of their much-needed public housing stock
The number of properties in East Suffolk that have been empty for six months or longer has fallen significantly in the past year.
A review conducted by East Suffolk Council in October found that 23% decline in properties standing empty for more than 2 years and a 50% decline in those empty for more than 6 months. This comes on the back of work undertaken by the council to regenerate unused land or buildings that would otherwise be 'a wasted resource'.
Councillor Richard Kerry is their cabinet member for housing. He said in a statement, "Leaving properties empty long-term is not just a waste of a building, it can also have a hugely negative impact on neighbours and the community, attracting anti-social behaviour, vandalism and fly-tipping".
They have been working with the owners of these properties, offering them support and assistance to bring them back into positive use. Grants of £15,000 were also given to help owners regenerate their property. In some cases, the council bought the land or buildings from owners for regeneration.
Using council tax data, properties that have stood empty for more than six months are reviewed annually. Those houses that have been empty for more than two years and could be used to offer affordable public housing are prioritised.
"“It remains a priority to tackle the issue as it is one of the best ways the Council can meet the need for good quality housing in East Suffolk", says Councillor Kerry. The property, 87 The High Street, in Lowestoft was acquired and used for this purpose.
It was an empty home and retail unit that had been empty for six years, when it was purchased from its original owners. Now, plans are being prepared to convert the whole building into flats which may be retained to provide homes for council tenants
For more information on what help is available if you own a long-term empty property or to report a property which has stood empty for more than 6 months, go to www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/housing/empty-properties/