Possible scheme to help home buyers and cut number of empty homes

The Executive is being asked to approve a scheme which would mean that the Council will pay up to 5% of the deposit to people buying houses that the Council has bought and improved.

The Council currently has 38 improved houses up for sale and by September we will have a further 22 making 60 in total.

Julie Whittaker, who manages housing regeneration said:

"We've been buying empty houses across Pendle including Nelson, Colne, Brierfield and Barnoldswick

"We've improved them for sale in a bid to have more good quality homes for people to buy.

"But the housing market has slowed down and we want to help by contributing towards people's deposits," she explained.

"Buyers have to find at least 10% of the purchase price and for many people this isn't affordable.

"That's why we're asking councillors to approve a scheme where the Council pays up to 5% and the buyer pays at least 5%," she said.

Would-be home buyers can find out about the council's improved homes for sale by contacting Liberata Property Services at Number One Market Street, Nelson BB9 7LJ telephone 01282 878934. The particulars of some properties are also available online.

Councillor Tony Beckett who leads on housing regeneration said:

"If the Executive approves this we will be giving buyers a helping hand, fewer houses will stand empty and we can use the cash from sales to improve more empty homes for sale," he added.

"It could help to revitalise neighbourhoods and regenerate the housing market, whilst supporting home buyers," he said.