Empty Homes Policy

5.1 There are many financial, environmental, social and economic benefits of bringing disused residential properties back into use. These include:

• Attractive neighbourhoods and economic vitality which can increase spend and boost the local economy

• An increased supply of available housing to help meet housing need and reduce homelessness and the need for temporary accommodation

• Making best use of existing housing stock

• Increased revenue and new homes bonus income

• Increased income for owners who rent or sell their empty properties

• Reduced crime and anti-social behaviour and the fear of crime through improvements to homes and buildings to create safer communities and attractive neighbourhoods

• Improving homes and buildings to modern standards using the latest low carbon technology

• Enhancing the vitality of town centres and promoting economic growth by bringing town centre homes and buildings back into use

• Improving the visual impact of neighbourhoods to boost wellbeing, create pride in the community and reduce demand on public services

• Supporting the Council's commitment to tackling threats to public health which are sometimes linked to empty properties such as fly-tipping, vandalism and anti-social behaviour.