Council initiative aims to tackle long-term empty properties and revitalise communities
LONG-TERM empty properties across Powys are being brought back into use as part of a major effort to create new homes, support local businesses and improve communities.
Powys County Council says significant progress is being made in identifying and renovating empty buildings, helping turn them into warm, safe and productive spaces once again.
The initiative forms part of the council’s wider ambition to create a “Stronger, Fairer, Greener” county by increasing housing supply, improving town centres and reducing the environmental and social problems often linked to derelict properties.
A dedicated Empty Property Team has been set up to tackle some of the most complex and long-standing cases across the county. The team works alongside a multi-agency Empty Property Problem Group, which focuses on buildings that have the biggest impact on local neighbourhoods, particularly in town centres.
Council investigations have already identified 18 previously unregistered properties now liable for council tax, generating more than £93,000 in additional income. Since January 2024, more than £119,000 has been raised through work related to empty properties.
The council says long-term vacant buildings can attract anti-social behaviour, create safety risks and negatively affect nearby residents.
To help address the issue, the authority is offering a combination of support, incentives and enforcement measures where necessary.
An online Empty Property Referral Form has also been introduced to make it easier for residents to report problem properties, allowing the council to respond more quickly.
Bringing empty homes back into use is also seen as one of the most environmentally sustainable ways to create new housing, reducing waste and lowering carbon emissions associated with demolition and new construction.
Owners are being encouraged to improve the energy efficiency of properties during renovation work, helping to reduce energy bills and contribute to wider climate targets.
The county is also benefiting from the Welsh Government National Empty Homes Grant scheme. So far the programme has received 113 enquiries from property owners, with 64 eligible applications submitted.
Fifty property surveys have been completed, 14 projects approved and three homes already fully refurbished and brought back into use. In total, the work has generated almost £709,000 in investment, including £351,682 in grant funding.
New funding models are also helping to regenerate challenging town-centre buildings, including projects in Welshpool and Newtown, where empty properties are being converted into homes and commercial spaces.
Councillor Matthew Dorrance, Deputy Leader of Powys County Council and Cabinet Member for a Fairer Powys, said bringing empty homes back into use is essential for the county’s future.
“These properties have the potential to become high-quality homes and thriving business spaces – and every one we bring back into use strengthens a community,” he said.
“Our Empty Property Team is making real progress, working with owners, tackling long-term issues and turning complex challenges into positive outcomes for local people. This is sustainable regeneration in action.”
Residents can report empty properties via the council’s website.
