Council transforms more than 300 long-term empty homes

More than 300 long-term empty homes in Telford and Wrekin have been transformed into housing.

Telford & Wrekin Council launched its Long-Term Empty Property Strategy in 2021 to address properties left vacant for extended periods.

Three years later, the council has restored 312 homes, making progress toward its goal of 375 by summer 2026.

Of the homes brought back into use, 81 have been repurposed to support vulnerable residents through the council’s Next Steps Accommodation Programme, offering specialist housing options.

Councillor Richard Overton (Lab), Telford & Wrekin Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Highways, Housing and Enforcement, said: “Long-term empty properties serve no purpose. Often, they are unkept, fall into disrepair and can attract fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour. This is unfair to neighbours and can have a big impact on the local community.

“Three years ago, we decided to take action to support our communities and boost the numbers of homes available for people who want to live in our borough. Our Empty Property Team has worked tirelessly in the last three years to work with property owners, use enforcement action where necessary, support our local communities and ultimately turn hundreds of empty properties back into warm and inviting homes.”