Bringing empty properties back into use

A problematic empty property has been given a new lease of life by Bury Council.

The house, in Far Hey Close, Radcliffe had fallen into disrepair over the years and had become an eyesore. The council had received multiple complaints about the detrimental effect this was having on the local area.

With funding from Homes England, the council was able to buy the property from its owners and carry out a full renovation. The property will be added to the council’s affordable housing stock and will be let by Six Town Housing to a family on the housing register.

Councillor Clare Cummins, cabinet member for housing services, said: “This is the 49^th empty property we have brought back into use in recent years. It gives families much needed new homes, and reduces blight in our neighbourhoods.”

Homes England said: “Despite the current challenges affecting the country, accelerating housebuilding remains our number one priority. We are committed to supporting Bury Council that has ambitions to build new homes and our investment through affordable housing grant allows us to do that. We’re delighted that this funding has enabled Bury Council to deliver much needed new homes in Bury.”

ENDS

Press release issued: 1 September 2022.

Picture: Pete Masters–Hall, development project manager at Bury Council, with Vicki Appleton, director of assets at Six Town Housing, outside the property.