Source: City of Preston
The Making Homes from Houses scheme has recently refurbished its 50th empty property, where Preston City Council along with long-term partner, Community Gateway Association (CGA), bring empty properties back to life.
The scheme involves properties that have been empty for more than a year and are in need of repair, enabling them to become a much-needed home for the people of Preston.
With more than a 1000 people on the housing waiting lists, the scheme brings affordable and suitable housing to those on the list, whilst also reducing the impact of new housing development on the environment.
Each March, Preston City Council celebrates national Empty Homes Week, highlighting how local authorities work tirelessly to bring empty homes into use. Recently the scheme reached its 50th home milestone.
This has been done through contacting property owners who have run down or empty properties to enquire about their intentions with the houses.
The council offers advice and information as to how best to bring it back into use, including through the Making Homes from Houses scheme, and supports the owner through the process.
Councillor Zafar Coupland, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing at Preston City Council said:
“This is a fantastic milestone for Preston City Council and the scheme has had some great feedback so far. We are working tirelessly to take action on homes negatively impacting neighbourhoods, whilst providing family homes to the people of Preston. This milestone will be the first of many on the way to tackling the need for more suitable and affordable housing in Preston.”
Louise Mattinson, Executive Director of Customers and Communities at Community Gateway Association, said:
“We are proud to work alongside Preston City Council to give empty properties a new lease of life. At Community Gateway, we believe everyone deserves a safe, secure and affordable home. Reaching the 50th refurbished property is a real achievement and more importantly, it means 50 more families in Preston now have a place to call home. We look forward to continuing this vital work together with Preston City Council.”
If there is an empty property near you that you think may be eligible for this scheme, see Empty homes.
Community Wealth Building
Preston City Council actively applies and prioritises the principles of Community Wealth Building wherever applicable and appropriate. Community Wealth Building is an approach which aims to ensure the economic system builds wealth and prosperity for everyone.