Chris Mole, has today welcomed news of Government funding to help councils deal with empty-homes that can be a magnet for anti-social behaviour. Ipswich Borough Council is amongst only 17 councils nationwide who have been selected for help. 

£1 million will be spread across 17 councils nationwide to help an intensive crackdown on the problems caused by empty properties. 

These properties attract vandalism, drug taking and gangs. Despite local councils already have tough legal powers to force private landlords to sort out their properties – they are not currently being effectively used and both tenants and landlords aren’t generally aware of them.

That’s why this Government cash will be directed into helping train key council staff to help them take over these properties and convert them for first-time housing for local people.

In Ipswich the money will help tackle empty properties around the station and waterfront area.

Responding to the news, Chris said:

“I’m delighted that the Government has chosen Ipswich to be a part of this scheme. Empty houses can be a magnet for anti-social behaviour.

“I know that tough laws already exist to make private landlords deal with troublesome empty properties – this funding from the Government will help ensure these powers are enforced to their full effect.”