1 Million Empty Homes in England: Agencies Demand Action for Housing Crisis
Over one million homes in England stand empty while 250,000 people struggle to find housing. The Empty Homes Agency calls for urgent action to bring these properties back into use. Meanwhile, councils have resorted to placing 100,000 families in temporary accommodation due to severe housing shortages.
The Empty Homes Agency, a national organisation advocating for stronger action, demands comprehensive measures to address the issue. They suggest a nationally funded Empty Homes Programme. Currently, local authorities lack sufficient powers to deal with empty homes effectively.
In England, 250,000 properties have been empty for over six months, with 530,000 serving as second homes or permanent short-term lets. Wales and Scotland have already implemented programs to tackle empty homes and short-term lets, highlighting the need for similar action in England.
The Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill proposes a council tax premium for empty homes, a step towards encouraging owners to bring their properties back into use. However, Action on Empty Homes argues that a more robust, nationally funded programme is necessary to significantly reduce the number of empty homes and alleviate the housing crisis.
With over one million homes for sale in England and a significant housing need, the Empty Homes Agency and Action on Empty Homes call for decisive action. The proposed council tax premium is a start, but a nationally funded Empty Homes Programme is seen as crucial to tackle the issue effectively and provide homes for those in need.
