Decision details

Agree funding to help increase the number of properties brought back into use across the borough through increased grants and loans, funding for CPO's and additional staff to facilitate the aims of the Empty Homes Strategy.

RESOLVED:

1.  That the report be noted and the following bids for capital funding to help increase the number of properties brought back into use across the borough be agreed:

a)  A capital allocation of £2m to provide funding to compulsory purchase (CPO) long-term empty homes.  This will be a revolving fund as costs will be recouped from the sale of the properties.  Further details in paragraphs 29-33 of the report.

b)  To increase the annual capital funding available for grants to refurbish empty homes from £95k to £400k.  Further details in paragraphs 22-26 of the report.

c)  To increase the annual capital funding available for loans to refurbish empty homes from £62k to £700k.  Further details in paragraphs 22-26 of the report.

d)  To support the expanded programme two additional officers will be recruited. The costs for the posts will be £90k. These posts will be funded from capital resources.  Further details in paragraphs 27-28 of the report.