Castle Point Borough Council to consider new Empty Homes Policy
Cabinet Members will review a proposal to adopt a new Empty Homes Policy at a Cabinet Meeting on 23 April. The Policy aims to address the issue of long-term vacant residential properties, returning them to use and increasing housing availability for residents.
Empty properties can have economic, environmental and social costs for the community due to the potential for neglect, crime and deterioration. The Council is committed to tackling this issue to improve neighbourhoods as well as increasing housing options for residents.
The Policy focuses on bringing empty homes back into use as efficiently as possible while engaging with property owners to understand challenges, provide assistance, and take enforcement action where necessary. Preventing properties from remaining vacant long-term is also a priority.
According to 2021 data from the Office for National Statistics, 82% of Castle Point’s housing stock is owner-occupied, which limits rental availability. As of July 2024, there were 462 empty homes in the Borough and the new Policy is an opportunity to bring these properties back into community use.
Councillor Rob Lillis, Portfolio Holder for Health, Wellbeing and Housing said: "Bringing empty homes back into use is a key priority for the Council. These properties represent a valuable resource at a time when housing is in high demand.
"Where necessary, we may also take enforcement action to ensure homes do not remain vacant indefinitely. By tackling this issue, we can help strengthen our communities and improve housing opportunities for local residents."
Residents who wish to report an empty home can do so via our website page or by emailing eh@castlepoint.gov.uk