Preston City Council savings depend on how interest rates affect Animate borrowing plansThe empty property was reported to housing standards in 2021 but had been empty since 2013 Pic: Preston City CouncilStanding empty for nine years the house was first reported as an empty home to housing standards in June 2021.
How the empty property now looks after renovation – and is home to a family who were on the city’s housing list Pic: Preston City CouncilOn average £155,000 is spent on bringing each property back into use, with funds being invested by the city council, Community Gateway Association and Homes England., said: “This brilliant and innovative scheme has already gained national recognition and continues to do so, with officers presenting at the Empty Homes Network event this summer.
“Re-using your empty property could also save you money. Keeping a property empty can cost almost £8,000 a year. If there’s an empty property near you, get in touch with the council to see what can be done.”