Helping landlords create new housing

A long-term empty property in Northwich has been fully restored, and given a new lease of life, thanks to help from Cheshire West and Chester Council and property owner, James Darragh.

The property located in Alan Street had been empty for several years and required complete renovation in order to bring the property up to standard and provide much needed accommodation.     

Councillor Beacham, Cabinet Member for Housing, Regeneration and Growth said: “As a Council ,we are very keen to bring as many empty properties back into use as we can.   There is great demand for accommodation across the borough with over 9,000 people on our housing register requiring affordable housing.  It is great to hear that Mr Darragh has brought this former long-term empty home back into use.”

The newly refurbished home will provide supported accommodation to individuals who had previously been homeless with residents being supported by Forfutures, the Council's homeless support service.      

Councillor Beacham explained: “The Council`s Empty Homes Grant is there to assist those individuals who wish to work with the Council to bring former empty properties back into use and provide housing for people on our housing register.” 

The amount of Empty Homes Grant available ranges from £2,000 - £10,000 and is subject to grant conditions and inspection by a council officer.  In return for financial assistance above £2000, the landlord is required to provide the Council with nomination rights for a five-year period.

Mr Darragh said: “I was really pleased when I was told that I could receive financial assistance in the form of an Empty Homes Grant to help with the cost of the refurbishment.  The property has now been converted, providing a home to four individuals who were previously homeless.”

Councillor Beacham continued: “This is a win-win all round as Mr Darragh has benefited from accessing the Empty Homes Grant, which has created a four-bedroom shared house, and individuals in housing need have been able to access much needed housing.”

For more information visit cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/emptyhomes, email emptyhomes@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk or call 0300 123 8037.