Making Homes from Houses continues with CGA at the helm
The Making Homes from Houses project is now entering its third phase, with Preston City Council (PCC) reappointing Community Gateway Association (CGA) as its partner to deliver its empty homes scheme. Once complete, the project will mean an estimated 52 new affordable rented homes in total across the city.
Twenty-two properties in Preston have already been refurbished and returned to family homes as part of the Making Homes from Houses project, having been empty for a total of 78 years. Thanks to funding commitments from the Council, CGA and Homes England several more empty homes have now been purchased or are in the process of legal completion.
There are many reasons properties are left empty – from the owner passing away or moving into care facilities, to landlords struggling to pay for repairs and keeping up with current housing standards for tenants. These empty houses do not need to go to waste as they can be transformed into homes through this vital project.
Rob Wakefield, our Chief Executive, said:
“We are delighted to have once again been awarded the contract to renovate empty homes as part of the Making Homes from Houses Project, supported by Homes England.
“By refurbishing vacant properties across Preston, we can generate more and much-needed affordable homes for those in housing need. At the same time, by bringing these eyesore homes up to scratch, we improve the appearance of our neighbourhoods and help combat anti-social behaviour. We look forward to building on our excellent working relationship with Preston City Council to successfully deliver this project.”
Councillor David Borrow, Cabinet member for planning and regulation, said:
“I’m delighted this priority project is continuing, following its success in the last few years.
“The Council is pleased to be continuing this work with Community Gateway Association as the successful organisation in the tender process and building on the fantastic partnership working we’ve had over the previous three years.
“Empty properties can have a negative impact on communities. By bringing empty homes back into use, an area’s appearance can be greatly improved and boost people's confidence in their neighbourhood.
“There is currently a shortage of satisfactory affordable housing across the country, not just Preston. Your empty property could be a new home for a person in housing need, a young family looking for their first home or an older person looking to downsize.
"Re-using your empty home can also save you money. Keeping your property empty can cost you nearly £8,000 a year. If there’s an empty property near you, get in touch with the council to see what can be done.”
Find out more about Empty Homes on the Council’s website.