🚪🏠 Exciting News for Rhondda! 🏠🚪
We’re seeing a real transformation in Rhondda Cynon Taf, with a significant drop in long-term empty homes! In nearly a decade, over 860 of these silent dwellings have been filled, turning lifeless properties into lively homes! 🏡💥
Back in April 2017, council tax records showed a daunting figure: 3,556 private sector homes were left empty for six months or more. But thanks to some smart strategies, this number has impressively reduced to 2,687 by April 2026! 📉✨
How was this achieved? Well, the council rolled out two effective empty homes strategies and introduced council tax premiums on these long-standing vacant properties. They’re also tackling second homes, encouraging owners to revitalise or sell. 💪💷
With Welsh Government’s support, through schemes like the Houses into Homes loan and the Valleys Taskforce Empty Homes Grant, a whopping £6.6 million has been invested to breathe new life into these homes! 🏘️💚
In partnership with social landlords, over £7 million has been secured, transforming empty spaces into homes for those in need. The innovative Homestep Plus scheme is also helping first-time buyers snag their dream homes. 🥇🏠
The buzz is all about keeping Rhondda vibrant and supporting local economies. By turning empty spaces into homes, jobs are sustained, and the community thrives! 🌟👩🔧
But it doesn’t stop here! Share your thoughts and ideas in the six-week public consultation for the new Empty Homes Strategy (2026-31). Your voice can shape the future of Rhondda. Let’s keep the momentum going! 💬🗳️
Got stories to share or ideas to improve our community? Let us know in the comments! 👇💬
#Rhondda #CommunityRevival #EmptyHomes #HomeSweetHome #LocalEconomy #SupportLocal 📍❤️