Haringey Council has made a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for a derelict house, demonstrating the lengths to which authorities are going to repossess landlord properties.
The three-bedroom property in Tottenham, North London, which was in a severe state of disrepair and hoarded with possessions, became vacant when its former tenant moved into a care home in 2018.
Despite repeated attempts to work with the owners - a limited company - to restore and bring the house back into use, little progress was made, and the council issued a CPO.
Objections by the owners led to a Planning Inspectorate hearing where several neighbours shared their concerns and highlighted the impact this property has had on them. Following the hearing, Housing Secretary Angela Rayner authorised the order.
The authority explains that long-term empty homes can have a significant detrimental impact on the local community and often suffer with decay due to the lack of maintenance, then can become a nuisance to neighbours, attract crime and anti-social behaviour. It will now ensure the house is sold and that the new buyer undertakes a full renovation and occupies it within a reasonable timeframe.
Councillor Sarah Williams (pictured), cabinet member for housing and planning, says targeting empty homes that are long-term or causing a nuisance to the local community is a huge priority.
“With the ongoing housing crisis, thousands are in urgent need of safe, well-maintained homes,” she adds. “By enforcing Compulsory Purchase Orders and utilising these empty properties, we can optimise our housing stock. Our commitment to revitalising these homes will not only address the needs of those who need a home but also enhance the local environment.”
In January the council voted through new measures that see homes empty for longer than 12 months pay a 200% premium on its council tax.
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