WE SHOULD NOT HAVE PROPERTIES SITTING EMPTY INSISTS COUNCIL DEPUTY LEADER

                                                                           

Cllr Fenty - derelict properties at root of many community problems

A COUNT-up has revealed there are currently 3,147 empty homes in North East Lincolnshire.

Many are well-maintained and free from anti-social behaviour or other issues.

Many, but not all.

Some, especially those which have become derelict,  can be a blight on communities, causing numerous problems for neighbours and local services.

Now the council has announced a new initiative to target 'nuisance'  empty properties and to bring them back into use.

Explains the authority's deputy leader Cllr John Fenty, who is also  portfolio holder for regeneration, skills and housing, said: “Empty homes, shops and derelict properties are the root of a lot of community problems across the UK.

“Properties, including shops, standing empty can be a magnet for anti-social behaviour, safety hazards and crime.

“At a time when people are having to join waiting lists to be able to get a home for themselves and their families, we should not have properties sitting empty.

"We are  looking to work with landlords and property owners to help solve some of the major issues in this borough." 

The council has drawn up a consultation document and is seeking comments from residents.

It can be viewed at www.nelincs.gov.uk/have-your-say.