People across Gedling borough are being urged to report empty houses so they can be brought back into use by the council.
Gedling Borough Council made the appeal as part of national Empty Homes Week.
They revealed that more than 100 empty properties have been brought back into use to boost local housing stock by their dedicated Empty Homes Officer and the team.
A long-term empty property is defined as one that has been unoccupied for six months or more. While some of these properties may appear derelict, many look lived-in and well-maintained, making it crucial for residents to report any suspected empty homes. The Empty Homes Officer can then investigate and work with property owners to find solutions.
Gedling borough has a long-term vacancy rate of 0.79%, which is below both the East Midlands average of 1.1% and the national rate of 1.03%. Similarly, second homes or furnished vacant properties in Gedling stand at just 0.31%, significantly lower than the regional average of 0.66% and the national average of 1.09%. While long-term vacant properties in Gedling increased by 5% in 2024, mirroring regional trends, the council said it remains committed to reducing this figure.
The total vacancy in the borough is currently 1,652 properties equivalent to 3.3% of all homes, which is lower than the national average of 3.9%. Gedling Borough Council actively monitors these figures and works to bring as many empty homes as possible back into use.
In 2023/2024, the council successfully brought 114 empty properties back into use, with some homes having been vacant for over 26 years.
That number continues to increase and when homeowners are unwilling to work with the council, they have legal tools at its disposal, including Compulsory Purchase Orders, Empty Dwelling Management Orders, and Enforced Sales.
There are many reasons why properties remain empty, including sentimental attachment, probate issues, financial difficulties, or waiting to pass the home on to a beneficiary. The council works directly with homeowners to provide practical solutions, like connecting empty homeowners with investors who can purchase or lease properties for refurbishment and offering expert advice and solutions to help owners sell or renovate their homes.
Deputy Leader of Gedling Borough Council and Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Growth and Economy, Councillor Jenny Hollingsworth said: “I am incredibly proud of the work that Gedling Borough Council is doing to tackle the issue of long-term empty homes.
“Our dedicated team has already helped bring over a hundred properties back into use, providing much-needed housing for local people while improving our communities. The results we are achieving demonstrate our commitment to making the most of our existing housing stock, supporting homeowners, and ensuring that every home is put to good use.
“We will continue to work tirelessly to reduce the number of empty homes in Gedling, creating a borough where everyone has access to safe, secure, and sustainable housing”
Residents who suspect a property is empty can report it to the council’s Empty Homes Officer by calling 0115 9013826 or email nicola.bryant@gedling.gov.uk.
