A dozen empty homes brought back into use - council

A dozen privately-owned empty homes have been brought back into use this year, a Hampshire council has said.

New Forest District Council said it was part of efforts to reduce the number of empty properties across the district.

Steve Davies, deputy leader of the council and portfolio holder for housing and homelessness, said it made it "clear to owners and landlords of empty properties that we will support them".

He said the 12 homes had helped improve the quality of their neighbourhoods.

The council said three of the restored properties were in Lymington, three in New Milton, two in Lyndhurst, and one each in Milford on Sea, Hythe, Totton and Calmore.

Mr Davies said one of the properties had been unoccupied for more than 15 years.

"We worked hard to ensure it was sold, and that the property achieved market value.

"Our costs and charges have been recovered, and any funds leftover will go to the previous owner."

He added that about £59,000 of council charges and costs had been recovered on behalf of council tax payers from that one sale.

"Our Empty Homes strategy makes it clear to owners and landlords of empty properties that we will support them.

"In some cases, enforcement is the only option left where, properties are sold, updated, and re-occupied.

"The 12 homes brought back into use this year have helped to meet needs in the private housing sector, mainly through private sale, and improve the quality of the immediate neighbourhood they are located in."

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