The extent of empty homes and how these can be brought back into use will be investigated by Holyrood’s Local Government and Communities Committee.
National Records of Scotland data from 2017 shows that 4% of Scotland’s dwellings are unoccupied and the Committee’s will examine why, looking at the scale of the issue, effectiveness of current legislation and what more can be done to prevent properties remaining empty for extended periods of time.
Convener of the Local Government and Communities Committee, James Dornan MSP, said:
“There are a number of reasons why a property is empty, but empty homes can have a huge impact on communities and reduce available housing supply.
“The Committee will explore the extent of the problem and the impact this can have on urban, rural and island communities across Scotland.”
Committee member Kenneth Gibson MSP added:
“We want to ensure local authorities have appropriate powers to tackle empty homes and that everything possible is being done to encourage owners to put them back into use. To do this we want to hear from local authorities, housing experts and those impacted by empty homes in their communities.”
The Committee is calling for evidence at parliament.scot/empty-homes-inquiry .
The call for written views will close on 17 May 2019.
ENDS
