Empty properties to be brought back into use in Potters Bar

EMPTY properties could soon be a thing of the past in Potters Bar.

The news emerged this week as Hertsmere Borough Council pledged to bring properties which have been vacant for six months or more back into use.

It is hoped the move will help cut homelessness and crime, while simultaneously reducing the need for new developments.

Cllr Hannah David, housing and planning portfolio holder, said: “There are clear economic and social benefits to bringing empty homes back into use so we have developed a strategy and action plan to deal with the problem.

“This will include keeping a database of empty properties and also helping to prevent properties becoming empty in the first place.”

She added: “Properties be-come unoccupied for a variety of reasons but what owners and landlords may not realise is that the council can help bring them back into use by providing advice as well as grants and loans for home improvements.

“In some cases, we can even help provide landlords with rent deposits if they can provide a home for someone who is on our priority housing list.”

If you know of any vacant dwellings or you own an empty property and want to discuss your options call the council’s housing department on 020 8207 2277 or email housing@hertsmere.gov.uk