Empty Homes Rise in North East Lincolnshire as Council Powers Are Urged
The number of empty homes in North East Lincolnshire is rising, prompting calls for councils to have more power to address the issue.
North East Lincolnshire, Empty Homes, Housing, Council Powers, Lee Pitcher
North East Lincolnshire: It looks like the number of empty homes is on the rise again. By the end of September 2024, there were 2,279 long-term empty homes, which is 19 more than the previous quarter. This is despite some properties being brought back into use after sorting out inheritances.
So, a bunch of MPs and housing groups are pushing for councils to get more powers to deal with these empty homes faster. Lee Pitcher, the MP for Doncaster East and Isle of Axholme, is one of the voices calling for change.
They even sent a letter to the Ministry for Housing, asking for more flexibility in using funds to turn these empty homes into affordable housing. They want a national strategy for empty homes as part of the government’s housing plans coming next year.
One of the tools councils have is called Empty Homes Dwelling Management Orders (EDMOs). These let councils take over properties that have been empty for over two years if they’re causing a nuisance. But some, like Pitcher and the charity Crisis, want to shorten that time to just six months again, like it used to be.
Despite the increase in empty homes, the council’s report says they’ve seen a rise in probate properties being used again. They’ve been sending out letters to target these properties specifically, and it seems to be working. They’re on track to meet their goal of getting 40 empty homes back into use this year.
In the meantime, Equans, the council’s partner, has been busy issuing notices to clean up poorly maintained properties and even boarding up a vandalized one. They’re also working with genealogists to sort out inheritances for some homes.
A spokesperson from the council mentioned they can’t comment on the parliamentary process but highlighted their efforts to bring empty homes back into use. They’re supporting local groups like East Marsh United, which is buying empty homes to provide affordable housing.
They also pointed out that their upcoming Council Plan will focus on improving housing quality and reducing the number of empty homes. They’re looking into why homes become empty in the first place, too.
Lastly, they reminded anyone struggling to keep their home that there’s support available through the Household Support Fund, which can help with bills and essentials. It’s great to see the community coming together to tackle this issue!