Reusing empty properties in the built environment - Revision history

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	[https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/publications/vacant-homes-action-plan-2023-2026/ Vacant Homes Action Plan] (Ireland) 2023‑2026 is a broader strategic plan launched by the government to reduce vacancy and dereliction in residential and former-commercial properties nationwide. It includes funding streams, a data collection exercise to allow local authorities to better identify empty and derelict buildings, and provides for measures such as compulsory purchase orders for badly neglected properties — all aimed at bringing more empty homes back into use.		[https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/publications/vacant-homes-action-plan-2023-2026/ Vacant Homes Action Plan] (Ireland) 2023‑2026 is a broader strategic plan launched by the government to reduce vacancy and dereliction in residential and former-commercial properties nationwide. It includes funding streams, a data collection exercise to allow local authorities to better identify empty and derelict buildings, and provides for measures such as compulsory purchase orders for badly neglected properties — all aimed at bringing more empty homes back into use.
		+
		+	Building Adaptably: How the construction sector can future proof Irish cities. CIOB. CIOB’s report says if adaptability requirements had been in place when they were first built, the current mismatch of commercial versus residential real estate may not exist. It adds building adaptability is also environmentally sustainable as it avoids the need to demolish and rebuild, which reduces the embodied carbon footprint of the construction sector. The key recommendations in CIOB’s report are:Introduce a mandatory requirement for adaptability assessments at the planning stage to ensure new developments are designed with future change in mind. Require planning applications for large-scale commercial or residential projects to include renovation and conversionscenarios as part of their design proposals. Offer tangible incentives, such as expedited planning approval to developers who adopt innovative, future-ready construction methods. Embed design-for-adaptability criteria into public land sales and procurement contracts to ensure publicly funded or facilitated developments are future-proofed for changing uses.

	== The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership (Scotland) ==		== The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership (Scotland) ==

	[https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/ https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/] The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership (SEHP) is funded by the Scottish Government and hosted by Shelter Scotland. Assisting to bring getting approximately 43,500 privately-owned long-term empty homes back into use at a time of a housing emergency. A national online portal to help bring empty homes back into use, connecting property owners with potential buyers, developers and local authorities. Building on successful local “matchmaker schemes,” the portal is part of a £2 million investment to accelerate the return of vacant homes and expand empty homes officer support. [https://www.gov.scot/news/finding-new-owners-for-empty-homes/ Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan highlighted the importance of using existing housing stock to address the housing emergency], noting that nearly 13,000 empty private homes have been brought back into use over 15 years, including a record 2,066 last year. The scheme allows owners to list properties for free, with most local schemes transitioning to the national platform. The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership emphasised that every empty home represents an opportunity to boost housing supply and support those in need.		[https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/ https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/] The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership (SEHP) is funded by the Scottish Government and hosted by Shelter Scotland. Assisting to bring getting approximately 43,500 privately-owned long-term empty homes back into use at a time of a housing emergency. A national online portal to help bring empty homes back into use, connecting property owners with potential buyers, developers and local authorities. Building on successful local “matchmaker schemes,” the portal is part of a £2 million investment to accelerate the return of vacant homes and expand empty homes officer support. [https://www.gov.scot/news/finding-new-owners-for-empty-homes/ Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan highlighted the importance of using existing housing stock to address the housing emergency], noting that nearly 13,000 empty private homes have been brought back into use over 15 years, including a record 2,066 last year. The scheme allows owners to list properties for free, with most local schemes transitioning to the national platform. The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership emphasised that every empty home represents an opportunity to boost housing supply and support those in need.
−
−	Building Adaptably: How the construction sector can future proof Irish cities. CIOB. CIOB’s report says if adaptability requirements had been in place when they were first built, the current mismatch of commercial versus residential real estate may not exist. It adds building adaptability is also environmentally sustainable as it avoids the need to demolish and rebuild, which reduces the embodied carbon footprint of the construction sector.

	= Previous programmes =		= Previous programmes =

Editor at 12:22, 8 December 2025

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	[https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/ https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/] The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership (SEHP) is funded by the Scottish Government and hosted by Shelter Scotland. Assisting to bring getting approximately 43,500 privately-owned long-term empty homes back into use at a time of a housing emergency. A national online portal to help bring empty homes back into use, connecting property owners with potential buyers, developers and local authorities. Building on successful local “matchmaker schemes,” the portal is part of a £2 million investment to accelerate the return of vacant homes and expand empty homes officer support. [https://www.gov.scot/news/finding-new-owners-for-empty-homes/ Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan highlighted the importance of using existing housing stock to address the housing emergency], noting that nearly 13,000 empty private homes have been brought back into use over 15 years, including a record 2,066 last year. The scheme allows owners to list properties for free, with most local schemes transitioning to the national platform. The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership emphasised that every empty home represents an opportunity to boost housing supply and support those in need.		[https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/ https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/] The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership (SEHP) is funded by the Scottish Government and hosted by Shelter Scotland. Assisting to bring getting approximately 43,500 privately-owned long-term empty homes back into use at a time of a housing emergency. A national online portal to help bring empty homes back into use, connecting property owners with potential buyers, developers and local authorities. Building on successful local “matchmaker schemes,” the portal is part of a £2 million investment to accelerate the return of vacant homes and expand empty homes officer support. [https://www.gov.scot/news/finding-new-owners-for-empty-homes/ Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan highlighted the importance of using existing housing stock to address the housing emergency], noting that nearly 13,000 empty private homes have been brought back into use over 15 years, including a record 2,066 last year. The scheme allows owners to list properties for free, with most local schemes transitioning to the national platform. The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership emphasised that every empty home represents an opportunity to boost housing supply and support those in need.
		+
		+	Building Adaptably: How the construction sector can future proof Irish cities. CIOB. CIOB’s report says if adaptability requirements had been in place when they were first built, the current mismatch of commercial versus residential real estate may not exist. It adds building adaptability is also environmentally sustainable as it avoids the need to demolish and rebuild, which reduces the embodied carbon footprint of the construction sector.

	= Previous programmes =		= Previous programmes =

Editor at 12:12, 8 December 2025

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	[https://www.habitat.org/emea/empty-spaces-to-homes Empty Spaces to Homes (Europe)] (across multiple European countries including Poland, Croatia, Hungary, UK)<br />		[https://www.habitat.org/emea/empty-spaces-to-homes Empty Spaces to Homes (Europe)] (across multiple European countries including Poland, Croatia, Hungary, UK)<br />
	Run by Habitat for Humanity International (and associated local Habitat chapters), this Europe-wide initiative aims to convert vacant and under-utilised buildings — including offices, commercial properties and unused housing stock — into affordable, energy-efficient homes. By 2030, the programme targets to work with many European cities to repurpose a substantial share of empty properties, providing social housing and supporting “green” renovation.		Run by Habitat for Humanity International (and associated local Habitat chapters), this Europe-wide initiative aims to convert vacant and under-utilised buildings — including offices, commercial properties and unused housing stock — into affordable, energy-efficient homes. By 2030, the programme targets to work with many European cities to repurpose a substantial share of empty properties, providing social housing and supporting “green” renovation.
		+
		+	[https://www.housingeurope.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Tools%20to%20Deal%20with%20Vacant%20Housing_Sept%202023.pdf Tools to Deal With Vacant Housing (2023) Housing Europe Obseervatory. Vol 7. Housing in the Post 2020 EU].This briefing focuses exclusively on vacant residential property, using the term “vacant property” to mean housing unless otherwise stated, and “owner” to refer either to the legal or beneficial owner, with distinctions made only when necessary for policy clarity. Section 1 examines how vacancy is measured, why homes become vacant, the different types of vacancy, and the impacts empty properties have on communities. Section 2 explores “carrot” policies—such as grants, loans, and alternative rental arrangements—that support owners and others in returning empty homes to use, while Section 3 reviews “stick” measures including fines and penalties designed to increase the cost of holding vacant property and encourage owners to sell or rent them out. Section 4 addresses vacancy clusters, where multiple empty homes create negative cycles for neighbourhoods but also present opportunities for coordinated renewal and district-level regeneration, aligning with broader European efforts like the EU’s Affordable Housing Initiative.

	--[[User:Editor\|Editor]]		--[[User:Editor\|Editor]]

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	Launched in 2022, this grant provides financial support to renovate vacant or derelict homes (or properties previously non-residential) to bring them back into residential use — either as owner-occupied homes or rental units. Grants of up to €30,000 (or up to €50,000 / €70,000 for more derelict properties) are available. The scheme has successfully helped bring thousands of vacant or derelict properties back into use across Ireland.		Launched in 2022, this grant provides financial support to renovate vacant or derelict homes (or properties previously non-residential) to bring them back into residential use — either as owner-occupied homes or rental units. Grants of up to €30,000 (or up to €50,000 / €70,000 for more derelict properties) are available. The scheme has successfully helped bring thousands of vacant or derelict properties back into use across Ireland.

−	Europe ~~(other countries / cross-country)~~	+	= Across Europe =

−	~~France 2025 building‑conversion law (Law no~~. ~~2025~~-~~541, June 2025)<br~~ />	+	[https://www.feantsa.org/files/Themes/Laudes-project/Final-FEANTSA-Repurposing-vacant-spaces-into-homes-best-practices.pdf Repurposing Vacant Spaces into homes. Collection of Best Practices.] Across Europe, vacant buildings coexist with rising homelessness and housing exclusion. This collection of best practices, compiled by FEANTSA with the support of the Laudes Foundation, showcases innovative projects and policy solutions that transform unused spaces into homes. From temporary shelters to long-term housing models, these examples demonstrate how repurposing existing buildings can provide dignified, affordable housing while promoting social inclusion and sustainability. The initiative highlights what’s possible when local authorities, NGOs, and communities work together to address both housing needs and the climate crisis.
−	~~France adopted new legislation in June 2025 to encourage and simplify the conversion of~~ vacant ~~offices and other non~~-~~residential~~ buildings ~~(hotels~~, ~~carparks~~, ~~commercial premises)~~ into ~~housing~~. ~~The law gives municipalities more flexibility — for example granting mayors the power~~ to ~~override certain local~~-~~planning regulations~~, and ~~introducing a “multi-purpose building permit” that makes it easier to change a building’s usage from office to residential and back~~. The ~~aim is to unlock a large pool of underused commercial real estate~~ and ~~relieve~~ housing ~~shortages in major cities~~.	+

−	Empty Spaces to Homes (Europe) (across multiple European countries including Poland, Croatia, Hungary, UK)<br />	+	[https://www.feantsa.org/files/Themes/Laudes-project/2510092_FEANTSA_-_Report_Reclaiming_vacant_spaces_WEB_spreads.pdf Reclaiming Vacant Spaces to Tackle Housing and Homelessness Crises in Europe] examines how vacant buildings—residential, commercial, historical, and institutional—can be repurposed to address urgent housing needs. Published by FEANTSA and supported by Laudes Foundation, the report maps vacancy rates across Europe, explores legal and policy frameworks, and identifies the barriers and opportunities linked to conversion. With over 47 million dwellings unoccupied across the EU, yet over 1.2 million people facing homelessness, the report argues that repurposing is a promising but underused strategy. It highlights the importance of aligning vacancy initiatives with local housing needs, ensuring affordability, and promoting sustainability through the reuse of existing building stock. Combining data analysis, policy review, and case studies, the report offers a practical framework for stakeholders to mobilise vacant spaces as part of a broader strategy to combat housing exclusion.
		+
		+	[https://www.service-public.gouv.fr/particuliers/actualites/A18398?lang=en France 2025 building‑conversion law (Law no. 2025-541, June 2025)] France adopted new legislation in June 2025 to encourage and simplify the conversion of vacant offices and other non-residential buildings (hotels, carparks, commercial premises) into housing. The law gives municipalities more flexibility — for example granting mayors the power to override certain local-planning regulations, and introducing a “multi-purpose building permit” that makes it easier to change a building’s usage from office to residential and back. The aim is to unlock a large pool of underused commercial real estate and relieve housing shortages in major cities.
		+
		+	[https://www.habitat.org/emea/empty-spaces-to-homes Empty Spaces to Homes (Europe)] (across multiple European countries including Poland, Croatia, Hungary, UK)<br />
	Run by Habitat for Humanity International (and associated local Habitat chapters), this Europe-wide initiative aims to convert vacant and under-utilised buildings — including offices, commercial properties and unused housing stock — into affordable, energy-efficient homes. By 2030, the programme targets to work with many European cities to repurpose a substantial share of empty properties, providing social housing and supporting “green” renovation.		Run by Habitat for Humanity International (and associated local Habitat chapters), this Europe-wide initiative aims to convert vacant and under-utilised buildings — including offices, commercial properties and unused housing stock — into affordable, energy-efficient homes. By 2030, the programme targets to work with many European cities to repurpose a substantial share of empty properties, providing social housing and supporting “green” renovation.

−	~~Many governments (UK, Ireland, France) are moving beyond building new housing — they increasingly recognise the value in repurposing existing but under~~-utilised or vacant buildings (homes, offices, public assets) to close housing supply gaps. Grants and subsidy programmes (like the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant in Ireland) often target individuals, social landlords or community bodies — making conversion accessible not just to large developers. Recent legislative change (e.g. in France in 2025) highlights a trend of lowering regulatory barriers to conversion, e.g. via more flexible permits — reflecting pressure from housing shortages and vacancies in commercial real estate (especially after changes in work habits, hybrid working, etc.). NGO-~~led, cross-border cooperation (e.g. via Habitat for Humanity) helps disseminate best practices across jurisdictions, facilitating scalable conversion of empty spaces.~~	+	--[[User:Editor\|Editor]]

	= Related articles on Designing Buildings =		= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

Editor at 11:53, 8 December 2025

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	Many governments (UK, Ireland, France) are moving beyond building new housing — they increasingly recognise the value in repurposing existing but under-utilised or vacant buildings (homes, offices, public assets) to close housing supply gaps. Grants and subsidy programmes (like the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant in Ireland) often target individuals, social landlords or community bodies — making conversion accessible not just to large developers. Recent legislative change (e.g. in France in 2025) highlights a trend of lowering regulatory barriers to conversion, e.g. via more flexible permits — reflecting pressure from housing shortages and vacancies in commercial real estate (especially after changes in work habits, hybrid working, etc.). NGO-led, cross-border cooperation (e.g. via Habitat for Humanity) helps disseminate best practices across jurisdictions, facilitating scalable conversion of empty spaces.		Many governments (UK, Ireland, France) are moving beyond building new housing — they increasingly recognise the value in repurposing existing but under-utilised or vacant buildings (homes, offices, public assets) to close housing supply gaps. Grants and subsidy programmes (like the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant in Ireland) often target individuals, social landlords or community bodies — making conversion accessible not just to large developers. Recent legislative change (e.g. in France in 2025) highlights a trend of lowering regulatory barriers to conversion, e.g. via more flexible permits — reflecting pressure from housing shortages and vacancies in commercial real estate (especially after changes in work habits, hybrid working, etc.). NGO-led, cross-border cooperation (e.g. via Habitat for Humanity) helps disseminate best practices across jurisdictions, facilitating scalable conversion of empty spaces.

−	Related articles on Designing Buildings	+	= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

	* Adverse possession.		* Adverse possession.
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	* Right to access land.		* Right to access land.
	* Squatting.		* Squatting.
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−	~~[[Category:Articles_needing_more_work]]~~

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	On 16 November, 2025 the Environmental Audit Committee published their Environmental sustainability and housing growth: Sixth Report of Session 2024-26 which suggested that the UK vacant properties rate might be roughly equal to the Labour Government's new homes target of 1.5m. Whilst [https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3r413l5n57o MHCLG estimates of around 720,000 unoccupied properties] and [https://historicengland.org.uk/research/heritage-counts/heritage-insights/vacant-buildings-to-new-homes/ Historic England suggests] repurposing existing buildings, such as commercial properties and historic buildings, could create 670,000 homes, [https://www.linkedin.com/company/homerton-college/ other studies] show potentially double this, yet tax treatment favours demolition and new-build.		On 16 November, 2025 the Environmental Audit Committee published their Environmental sustainability and housing growth: Sixth Report of Session 2024-26 which suggested that the UK vacant properties rate might be roughly equal to the Labour Government's new homes target of 1.5m. Whilst [https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3r413l5n57o MHCLG estimates of around 720,000 unoccupied properties] and [https://historicengland.org.uk/research/heritage-counts/heritage-insights/vacant-buildings-to-new-homes/ Historic England suggests] repurposing existing buildings, such as commercial properties and historic buildings, could create 670,000 homes, [https://www.linkedin.com/company/homerton-college/ other studies] show potentially double this, yet tax treatment favours demolition and new-build.

−	The accredited official statistics for Dwelling Stock Estimates, England: 31 March 2024 (published 22 May 2025) note that as of 31 March 2024 England had 25.6 million dwellings, an increase of 221,070 dwellings or 0.87% on the previous year. Of which 16.5 million were owner-occupied dwellings, an increase of 175,000 dwellings on the previous year, 4.9 million dwellings were private rented dwellings, an increase of 15,000 dwellings on the previous year, 4.2 million dwellings were social and affordable rented dwellings (Private Registered Providers plus Local Authorities), an increase of 33,000 dwellings on the previous year and 29,000 dwellings were other public sector dwellings, a decrease of 1,800 dwellings on the previous year. It also notes that there were 719,470 vacant dwellings in England on 7 October 2024, an increase of 20,344 or 2.9% from 699,126 on 2 October 2023. 264,884 represented long-term vacant dwellings an increase of 3,410 or 1.3% from 261,474 on 2 October 2023.	+	The accredited official statistics for [https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/dwelling-stock-estimates-in-england-2024/dwelling-stock-estimates-england-31-march-2024 Dwelling Stock Estimates, England: 31 March 2024 (published 22 May 2025)] note that as of 31 March 2024 England had 25.6 million dwellings, an increase of 221,070 dwellings or 0.87% on the previous year. Of which 16.5 million were owner-occupied dwellings, an increase of 175,000 dwellings on the previous year, 4.9 million dwellings were private rented dwellings, an increase of 15,000 dwellings on the previous year, 4.2 million dwellings were social and affordable rented dwellings (Private Registered Providers plus Local Authorities), an increase of 33,000 dwellings on the previous year and 29,000 dwellings were other public sector dwellings, a decrease of 1,800 dwellings on the previous year. It also notes that there were 719,470 vacant dwellings in England on 7 October 2024, an increase of 20,344 or 2.9% from 699,126 on 2 October 2023. 264,884 represented long-term vacant dwellings an increase of 3,410 or 1.3% from 261,474 on 2 October 2023.

	[[File:Gov_UK_vacant_dwellings_6-Figure_edited_1000.jpg\|link=File:Gov_UK_vacant_dwellings_6-Figure_edited_1000.jpg]]		[[File:Gov_UK_vacant_dwellings_6-Figure_edited_1000.jpg\|link=File:Gov_UK_vacant_dwellings_6-Figure_edited_1000.jpg]]

−	The MHCLG previously published vacant dwellings table (live table 615) brings together figures on all vacant dwellings and all long-term vacant dwellings in England at local authority district level from 2004 (when records began), drawn from several separately published sources. The England figures have been previously published within the Council Tax base statistics. The Council Tax Base reports on dwellings on the Council Tax list, and whether they are receiving discounts or are being charged premiums. This includes dwellings that have been reported as empty (ie unoccupied and unfurnished) for the purposes of council tax, and so may be subject to a discount or not, charged a premium or fall into an exempt category. The all vacants figures will also include properties that have a council tax exemption. The data are reported from all local authorities and taken as a snapshot of their Council Tax administration system in October.	+	The MHCLG previously published vacant dwellings table ([https://www.gov.uk/government/statistical-data-sets/live-tables-on-dwelling-stock-including-vacants live table 615]) brings together [https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/dwelling-stock-estimates-in-england-2024/dwelling-stock-estimates-england-31-march-2024#vacant-dwellings figures on all vacant dwellings and all long-term vacant dwellings in England at local authority district level from 2004] (when records began), drawn from several separately published sources. The England figures have been previously published within the [https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/council-taxbase-statistics Council Tax base] statistics. The Council Tax Base reports on dwellings on the Council Tax list, and whether they are receiving discounts or are being charged premiums. This includes dwellings that have been reported as empty (ie unoccupied and unfurnished) for the purposes of council tax, and so may be subject to a discount or not, charged a premium or fall into an exempt category. The all vacants figures will also include properties that have a council tax exemption. The data are reported from all local authorities and taken as a snapshot of their Council Tax administration system in October.

	= Policy, programmes and campaigns =		= Policy, programmes and campaigns =

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	[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/what-is-pride-in-place Pride in Place programme] (England) aims to see up to £5 billion given to nearly 250 areas across the UK, each area receiving up to £20 million of funding and support over the next 10 years to make long-term improvements, part of a drive to give local areas “the resources and tools to drive change themselves.” Although not directly focussed on empty properties these funds may also be used to bring empty properties, such as on high streets, into reuse as part of a regeneration scheme.		[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/what-is-pride-in-place Pride in Place programme] (England) aims to see up to £5 billion given to nearly 250 areas across the UK, each area receiving up to £20 million of funding and support over the next 10 years to make long-term improvements, part of a drive to give local areas “the resources and tools to drive change themselves.” Although not directly focussed on empty properties these funds may also be used to bring empty properties, such as on high streets, into reuse as part of a regeneration scheme.

−	= National Empty Homes Grant (Wales) =	+	== National Empty Homes Grant (Wales) ==

	In the [https://www.nationalemptyhomesgrant.wales/EN/About.aspx National Empty Homes Grant] the Welsh Government has prioritised and is committed to supporting individuals to bring empty homes back in to use to help re-generate communities and provide much-needed affordable housing for individuals across Wales. Applicants who meet eligibility criteria can receive up to £25,000 toward essential repairs needed to make an empty home safe, secure, energy-efficient, and free of category 1 hazards. Owners must contribute 15% of eligible costs (up to £3,750) unless facing financial hardship. Only works identified by the Local Authority surveyor are eligible, and no grant is given for repairs under £1,000 or for work done before approval. If repair costs exceed £25,000, the applicant must fund the difference. Grant payment is released only after all approved work is completed, certified, and a Legal Charge is registered against the property. The grant must be repaid if the home is sold or not occupied as intended within five years.		In the [https://www.nationalemptyhomesgrant.wales/EN/About.aspx National Empty Homes Grant] the Welsh Government has prioritised and is committed to supporting individuals to bring empty homes back in to use to help re-generate communities and provide much-needed affordable housing for individuals across Wales. Applicants who meet eligibility criteria can receive up to £25,000 toward essential repairs needed to make an empty home safe, secure, energy-efficient, and free of category 1 hazards. Owners must contribute 15% of eligible costs (up to £3,750) unless facing financial hardship. Only works identified by the Local Authority surveyor are eligible, and no grant is given for repairs under £1,000 or for work done before approval. If repair costs exceed £25,000, the applicant must fund the difference. Grant payment is released only after all approved work is completed, certified, and a Legal Charge is registered against the property. The grant must be repaid if the home is sold or not occupied as intended within five years.

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	= Current programmes =		= Current programmes =

−	== Pride in Place programme ==	+	== Pride in Place programme (England) ==

	[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/what-is-pride-in-place Pride in Place programme] (England) aims to see up to £5 billion given to nearly 250 areas across the UK, each area receiving up to £20 million of funding and support over the next 10 years to make long-term improvements, part of a drive to give local areas “the resources and tools to drive change themselves.” Although not directly focussed on empty properties these funds may also be used to bring empty properties, such as on high streets, into reuse as part of a regeneration scheme.		[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/what-is-pride-in-place Pride in Place programme] (England) aims to see up to £5 billion given to nearly 250 areas across the UK, each area receiving up to £20 million of funding and support over the next 10 years to make long-term improvements, part of a drive to give local areas “the resources and tools to drive change themselves.” Although not directly focussed on empty properties these funds may also be used to bring empty properties, such as on high streets, into reuse as part of a regeneration scheme.

−	== [https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/publications/vacant-homes-action-plan-2023-2026/ Vacant Homes Action Plan] ==	+	= National Empty Homes Grant (Wales) =
		+
		+	In the [https://www.nationalemptyhomesgrant.wales/EN/About.aspx National Empty Homes Grant] the Welsh Government has prioritised and is committed to supporting individuals to bring empty homes back in to use to help re-generate communities and provide much-needed affordable housing for individuals across Wales. Applicants who meet eligibility criteria can receive up to £25,000 toward essential repairs needed to make an empty home safe, secure, energy-efficient, and free of category 1 hazards. Owners must contribute 15% of eligible costs (up to £3,750) unless facing financial hardship. Only works identified by the Local Authority surveyor are eligible, and no grant is given for repairs under £1,000 or for work done before approval. If repair costs exceed £25,000, the applicant must fund the difference. Grant payment is released only after all approved work is completed, certified, and a Legal Charge is registered against the property. The grant must be repaid if the home is sold or not occupied as intended within five years.
		+
		+	== [https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/publications/vacant-homes-action-plan-2023-2026/ Vacant Homes Action Plan] (Ireland) ==

	[https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/publications/vacant-homes-action-plan-2023-2026/ Vacant Homes Action Plan] (Ireland) 2023‑2026 is a broader strategic plan launched by the government to reduce vacancy and dereliction in residential and former-commercial properties nationwide. It includes funding streams, a data collection exercise to allow local authorities to better identify empty and derelict buildings, and provides for measures such as compulsory purchase orders for badly neglected properties — all aimed at bringing more empty homes back into use.		[https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/publications/vacant-homes-action-plan-2023-2026/ Vacant Homes Action Plan] (Ireland) 2023‑2026 is a broader strategic plan launched by the government to reduce vacancy and dereliction in residential and former-commercial properties nationwide. It includes funding streams, a data collection exercise to allow local authorities to better identify empty and derelict buildings, and provides for measures such as compulsory purchase orders for badly neglected properties — all aimed at bringing more empty homes back into use.

−	== The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership ==	+	== The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership (Scotland) ==

	[https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/ https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/] The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership (SEHP) is funded by the Scottish Government and hosted by Shelter Scotland. Assisting to bring getting approximately 43,500 privately-owned long-term empty homes back into use at a time of a housing emergency. A national online portal to help bring empty homes back into use, connecting property owners with potential buyers, developers and local authorities. Building on successful local “matchmaker schemes,” the portal is part of a £2 million investment to accelerate the return of vacant homes and expand empty homes officer support. [https://www.gov.scot/news/finding-new-owners-for-empty-homes/ Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan highlighted the importance of using existing housing stock to address the housing emergency], noting that nearly 13,000 empty private homes have been brought back into use over 15 years, including a record 2,066 last year. The scheme allows owners to list properties for free, with most local schemes transitioning to the national platform. The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership emphasised that every empty home represents an opportunity to boost housing supply and support those in need.		[https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/ https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/] The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership (SEHP) is funded by the Scottish Government and hosted by Shelter Scotland. Assisting to bring getting approximately 43,500 privately-owned long-term empty homes back into use at a time of a housing emergency. A national online portal to help bring empty homes back into use, connecting property owners with potential buyers, developers and local authorities. Building on successful local “matchmaker schemes,” the portal is part of a £2 million investment to accelerate the return of vacant homes and expand empty homes officer support. [https://www.gov.scot/news/finding-new-owners-for-empty-homes/ Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan highlighted the importance of using existing housing stock to address the housing emergency], noting that nearly 13,000 empty private homes have been brought back into use over 15 years, including a record 2,066 last year. The scheme allows owners to list properties for free, with most local schemes transitioning to the national platform. The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership emphasised that every empty home represents an opportunity to boost housing supply and support those in need.
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	[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/new-homes-bonus-allocation-table-provisional-local-government-finance-settlement-2025-to-2026 New Homes Bonus] was introduced by the coalition government in 2011 to provide a financial incentive for local authorities to increase the number of homes. It continues to be supported by Labour as part of a drive to empower local decision making, a grant paid by central government to local councils to reflect housing growth in their areas. Based on the amount of extra council tax revenue raised for new-build homes, conversions and long-term empty homes brought back into use, with an extra payment for providing affordable homes.		[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/new-homes-bonus-allocation-table-provisional-local-government-finance-settlement-2025-to-2026 New Homes Bonus] was introduced by the coalition government in 2011 to provide a financial incentive for local authorities to increase the number of homes. It continues to be supported by Labour as part of a drive to empower local decision making, a grant paid by central government to local councils to reflect housing growth in their areas. Based on the amount of extra council tax revenue raised for new-build homes, conversions and long-term empty homes brought back into use, with an extra payment for providing affordable homes.
−
−	~~[https://www.nationalemptyhomesgrant.wales/EN/Home.aspx https://www.nationalemptyhomesgrant.wales/EN/Home.aspx]~~
−
−	~~[https://www.gov.wales/apply-empty-homes-grant https://www.gov.wales/apply-empty-homes-grant]~~

	Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant (under Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund)<br />		Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant (under Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund)<br />

Editor at 11:12, 8 December 2025

2025-12-08T11:12:22Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:12, 8 December 2025
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	[https://ehnetwork.org.uk/ https://ehnetwork.org.uk/] "Supporting the people who bring empty property back into use for housing" The Empty Homes Network (EHN) is the successor to the National Association of Empty Property Practitioners (NAEPP). NAEPP was established in May 2001 to support people involved in delivering empty property strategies. It was launched by empty property practitioners with the support of government ministers, the Housing Corporation and the Empty Homes Agency.		[https://ehnetwork.org.uk/ https://ehnetwork.org.uk/] "Supporting the people who bring empty property back into use for housing" The Empty Homes Network (EHN) is the successor to the National Association of Empty Property Practitioners (NAEPP). NAEPP was established in May 2001 to support people involved in delivering empty property strategies. It was launched by empty property practitioners with the support of government ministers, the Housing Corporation and the Empty Homes Agency.
−
−	~~== The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership ==~~
−
−	[https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/ https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/] The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership (SEHP) is funded by the Scottish Government and hosted by Shelter Scotland. We exist to assist in getting Scotland’s approximately 43,500 privately-owned long-term empty homes back into use. At a time of a housing emergency, we know that every home matters.

	== Empty Spaces to Homes Habitat for Humanity GB ==		== Empty Spaces to Homes Habitat for Humanity GB ==
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	[https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/publications/vacant-homes-action-plan-2023-2026/ Vacant Homes Action Plan] (Ireland) 2023‑2026 is a broader strategic plan launched by the government to reduce vacancy and dereliction in residential and former-commercial properties nationwide. It includes funding streams, a data collection exercise to allow local authorities to better identify empty and derelict buildings, and provides for measures such as compulsory purchase orders for badly neglected properties — all aimed at bringing more empty homes back into use.		[https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/publications/vacant-homes-action-plan-2023-2026/ Vacant Homes Action Plan] (Ireland) 2023‑2026 is a broader strategic plan launched by the government to reduce vacancy and dereliction in residential and former-commercial properties nationwide. It includes funding streams, a data collection exercise to allow local authorities to better identify empty and derelict buildings, and provides for measures such as compulsory purchase orders for badly neglected properties — all aimed at bringing more empty homes back into use.

−	~~National~~ online portal to help bring empty homes back into use, connecting property owners with potential buyers, developers and local authorities. Building on successful local “matchmaker schemes,” the portal is part of a £2 million investment to accelerate the return of vacant homes and expand empty homes officer support. Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan highlighted the importance of using existing housing stock to address the housing emergency, noting that nearly 13,000 empty private homes have been brought back into use over 15 years, including a record 2,066 last year. The scheme allows owners to list properties for free, with most local schemes transitioning to the national platform. The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership emphasised that every empty home represents an opportunity to boost housing supply and support those in need.	+	== The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership ==
		+
		+	[https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/ https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/] The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership (SEHP) is funded by the Scottish Government and hosted by Shelter Scotland. Assisting to bring getting approximately 43,500 privately-owned long-term empty homes back into use at a time of a housing emergency. A national online portal to help bring empty homes back into use, connecting property owners with potential buyers, developers and local authorities. Building on successful local “matchmaker schemes,” the portal is part of a £2 million investment to accelerate the return of vacant homes and expand empty homes officer support. [https://www.gov.scot/news/finding-new-owners-for-empty-homes/ Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan highlighted the importance of using existing housing stock to address the housing emergency], noting that nearly 13,000 empty private homes have been brought back into use over 15 years, including a record 2,066 last year. The scheme allows owners to list properties for free, with most local schemes transitioning to the national platform. The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership emphasised that every empty home represents an opportunity to boost housing supply and support those in need.

	= Previous programmes =		= Previous programmes =
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	[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/new-homes-bonus-allocation-table-provisional-local-government-finance-settlement-2025-to-2026 New Homes Bonus] was introduced by the coalition government in 2011 to provide a financial incentive for local authorities to increase the number of homes. It continues to be supported by Labour as part of a drive to empower local decision making, a grant paid by central government to local councils to reflect housing growth in their areas. Based on the amount of extra council tax revenue raised for new-build homes, conversions and long-term empty homes brought back into use, with an extra payment for providing affordable homes.		[https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/new-homes-bonus-allocation-table-provisional-local-government-finance-settlement-2025-to-2026 New Homes Bonus] was introduced by the coalition government in 2011 to provide a financial incentive for local authorities to increase the number of homes. It continues to be supported by Labour as part of a drive to empower local decision making, a grant paid by central government to local councils to reflect housing growth in their areas. Based on the amount of extra council tax revenue raised for new-build homes, conversions and long-term empty homes brought back into use, with an extra payment for providing affordable homes.
−
−	~~[https://www.gov.scot/news/finding-new-owners-for-empty-homes/ https://www.gov.scot/news/finding-new-owners-for-empty-homes/]~~
−
−	~~[https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/ https://emptyhomespartnership.scot/]~~

	[https://www.nationalemptyhomesgrant.wales/EN/Home.aspx https://www.nationalemptyhomesgrant.wales/EN/Home.aspx]		[https://www.nationalemptyhomesgrant.wales/EN/Home.aspx https://www.nationalemptyhomesgrant.wales/EN/Home.aspx]

Editor at 10:50, 8 December 2025

2025-12-08T10:50:27Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:50, 8 December 2025
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	= Current programmes =		= Current programmes =
		+
		+	== Pride in Place programme ==

	[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/what-is-pride-in-place Pride in Place programme] (England) aims to see up to £5 billion given to nearly 250 areas across the UK, each area receiving up to £20 million of funding and support over the next 10 years to make long-term improvements, part of a drive to give local areas “the resources and tools to drive change themselves.” Although not directly focussed on empty properties these funds may also be used to bring empty properties, such as on high streets, into reuse as part of a regeneration scheme.		[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/what-is-pride-in-place Pride in Place programme] (England) aims to see up to £5 billion given to nearly 250 areas across the UK, each area receiving up to £20 million of funding and support over the next 10 years to make long-term improvements, part of a drive to give local areas “the resources and tools to drive change themselves.” Although not directly focussed on empty properties these funds may also be used to bring empty properties, such as on high streets, into reuse as part of a regeneration scheme.

−	Vacant Homes Action Plan (Ireland) 2023‑2026~~<br />~~	+	== [https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/publications/vacant-homes-action-plan-2023-2026/ Vacant Homes Action Plan] ==
−	~~This~~ is a broader strategic plan launched by the government to reduce vacancy and dereliction in residential and former-commercial properties nationwide. It includes funding streams, a data collection exercise to allow local authorities to better identify empty and derelict buildings, and provides for measures such as compulsory purchase orders for badly neglected properties — all aimed at bringing more empty homes back into use.	+
		+	[https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/publications/vacant-homes-action-plan-2023-2026/ Vacant Homes Action Plan] (Ireland) 2023‑2026 is a broader strategic plan launched by the government to reduce vacancy and dereliction in residential and former-commercial properties nationwide. It includes funding streams, a data collection exercise to allow local authorities to better identify empty and derelict buildings, and provides for measures such as compulsory purchase orders for badly neglected properties — all aimed at bringing more empty homes back into use.
		+
		+	National online portal to help bring empty homes back into use, connecting property owners with potential buyers, developers and local authorities. Building on successful local “matchmaker schemes,” the portal is part of a £2 million investment to accelerate the return of vacant homes and expand empty homes officer support. Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan highlighted the importance of using existing housing stock to address the housing emergency, noting that nearly 13,000 empty private homes have been brought back into use over 15 years, including a record 2,066 last year. The scheme allows owners to list properties for free, with most local schemes transitioning to the national platform. The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership emphasised that every empty home represents an opportunity to boost housing supply and support those in need.

	= Previous programmes =		= Previous programmes =