🏠✨ Big changes in Pembrokeshire’s housing policy! In a bid to tackle housing shortages, local councillors have given the nod to using compulsory purchase powers on long-term empty homes. This means that properties sitting empty for over two years could be sold off to provide much-needed housing.
Currently, owners of these vacant homes are hit with a 300% council tax premium. But, the council is setting sights on a more strategic approach for managing these properties from 2025-30. While this new plan allows for enforcing sales, it’s really a last resort. The priority remains working with owners informally to breathe new life into these homes.
Why are these changes considered? Empty properties are not just wasted resources; they can also become blights, attracting antisocial behaviour, vandalism, and other issues that affect neighbourhoods.
However, officials reassure that enforced sales will be rare, only happening when other solutions have been exhausted and necessary repairs are beyond property owners’ capabilities. The new powers will not target owners simply because they haven’t paid the tax premium.
During a recent council meeting, the strategy received unanimous support. It’s a move that reflects the council’s commitment to using all available legal avenues to improve local housing stock while ensuring the approach remains fair and case-by-case.
This initiative highlights how local authorities can take active steps to not only address housing shortages but also improve community safety and property values. 🏡💕 What are your thoughts on this bold move? Let us know in the comments! ⬇️