Rotherham Council steps up support for owners of long-term empty properties to tackle housing crisis

The borough has less than three per cent of homes vacant but says this can still have a negative impact on communities.

Help can include advice on marketing a property or accessing support through RMBC’s probate researchers.

The council’s empty homes officer has dealt with 199 enquiries in the past year, bringing 27 properties back into use.

Cllr Amy Brookes, cabinet member for housing, said: “We’re urging anyone who is struggling to bring a residential empty home back into to use to contact us. Likewise if you know of an empty property and would like to see it become a home again.

“We have a dedicated team that want to work with owners to offer support, information, and advice. We know the reasons for properties remaining vacant can be complex and myriad.”

For more information, you can visit www.rotherham.gov.uk/private-housing/empty-homes.