​Partnership aims to bring empty homes into use in Glasgow

A new partnership to tackle the problem of Glasgow’s empty homes has been launched.

The project between the Shelter-run Scottish Empty Homes Partnership, Glasgow City Council and Glasgow Housing Association, is set to launch this week to help bring some of the city’s 2,000 long-term privately owned empty homes back into use.

The project will see one full-time empty homes officer based at the council’s headquarters in Glasgow who will offer practical help and advice to members of the public and owners of empty properties.

Kristen Hubert of the Scottish Empty Homes Partnership said: “At a time when housing demand continues to outstrip supply in Glasgow it is important, now more than ever, to think innovatively and make the best use of existing housing stock.

"It is positive to see proactive joint working to bring empty homes back into use for families and individuals who desperately need them.

It is positive to see proactive joint working to bring empty homes back into use

“Whatever the reason for an empty home – whether the owner has sentimental attachment to it or doesn’t have the time, skills or finances to complete their plans – bringing empty homes back into use has many benefits. It adds to the housing supply, contributes to local regeneration and makes for safer neighbourhoods.

"It’s a win-win situation for owners too as they can begin to realise an income from their property or sell on an asset that is costing them money.

“We look forward to working with Glasgow City Council and Glasgow Housing Association to engage with owners across the city to help transform empty properties back into homes.”

There are around 20,000 households in Glasgow on the main waiting list for a home.

In 2014/15 a total of 6,652 households made homelessness applications to Glasgow City Council, while 2,008 homeless households were in temporary accommodation.

According to Shelter Scotland, there are 27,000 long-term empty homes across Scotland.