Innovative Scheme for New Homes

Dozens of empty properties in South Somerset could be fully renovated - and let out to local residents in need of housing - if a campaign led by South Somerset District Council is successful.

The district council is targeting owners to make them aware of a grant scheme designed to help them completely refurbish empty buildings and transform them into good quality homes that would then be let to those in housing need.

Before refurbishment...         ...after refurbishment

The scheme not only offers funding but helps provide the owner with a tenant, as a condition of the grant is that the new accommodation should usually be let out for five years to people on the housing register.

Cllr Ric Pallister, Portfolio Holder for Environmental Health and Housing at South Somerset District Council explains, "In South Somerset we have around 1000 empty properties. Some have been empty for many years, and it is these ones that we want to target. They can become unsightly, especially for neighbours, devalue the area and can attract anti social behaviour and vandalism. This is an extremely good opportunity for owners to bring them back into use, but also good news for those in desperate need of housing.

"It is a win-win situation. The empty properties are permanently improved and the owners - and neighbours - know that it will not be left unoccupied.

"The funds are limited but people need to know help is out there."

The amount of grant available depends on the number and size of units created, but up to £12,000 could be available for each unit of accommodation plus another £1,000 for energy efficiency works. Low cost loans may also be available for more expensive works.

The grant is to assist in bringing the property up to the Government's 'decent homes standard' and includes help for works to make the property a home that is secure and affordable to keep warm.

For further information, South Somerset District Council's Housing Standards Officers Paul Rees and Chris Malcolmson are available to give advice on 01935 462462.

General information on empty properties and empty homes can be found at www.emptyhomes.com

Dawn Haydon,

South Somerset District Council Communications Team. Tel: 01935 462130

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