Issue - meetings

The report of the Executive Manager – Neighbourhoods is attached.

It was RESOLVED that

a)    The Empty Homes Strategy 2019 -2024 be approved and,

b)    The Executive Manager – Neighbourhoods be authorised to make minor rvisions to the Strategy during its lifespan

Councillor Upton proposed the report of the Executive Manager – Neighbourhoods which asked for Cabinet approval of a revised Empty Homes Strategy for the authority. He highlighted that there were over 900 empty residential properties in the Borough with 100 of these having been empty for over two years. These long-term empty properties were increasingly a cause of alarm to neighbours as they attracted pests and fly-tipping, led to over-grown gardens, and were a focus of crime and disorder. Alongside an analysis of why homes become empty, the strategy outlines what assistance can be given to home owners, and what action can be taken by the authority, to bring homes back into occupation.

Councillor Edyvean endorsed the comments of Councillor Upton in seconding the report.

Councillor Robinson added that in light of the pressure within the Borough to increase the number of new homes, it seemed right do what was necessary to bring empty properties back into use.

It was RESOLVED that

a)    The Empty Homes Strategy 2019 -2024 be approved and,

b)    The Executive Manager – Neighbourhoods be authorised to make minor rvisions to the Strategy during its lifespan

Reasons for Recommendation

To create a strategic framework and associated action plan which will detail how the Council will seek to target and address empty homes in the borough.