A new website has been launched to help tackle the problem of empty homes in Northern Ireland.
The website – www.emptyhomesni.com – gives homeowners information on the options available to help bring empty homes back into housing use.
It is estimated there are in excess of 1,500 privately owned residential properties in Derry.
The initiative is part of the Department for Social Development’s Empty Homes strategy which is being delivered in partnership with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
Housing Minister Nelson McCausland welcomed the move.
He said: “People should use this website to tell us where these properties are so that we can tackle the blight they bring and help meet housing need”.
Siobhan McCauley, NIHE Director of Regional Services, any property that was lying empty was a “wasted resource,” both for the owner and those looking for somewhere to live.
She added: “If left vacant for a long period of time its physical condition can deteriorate and the property can become a nuisance for those living in the neighbourhood, discourage investment and lead to economic decline.
“Bringing these properties back into use could benefit the owners, provide affordable housing for those looking for a home, while at the same time improve and regenerate neighbourhoods with a reduction in anti social behaviour, property deterioration and associated crime.”
Ms McCauley said the website would allow the public to report an empty home and also give homeowners advice on a range of options and useful contacts for renting, various ways of selling, or renovating.
She added: “In addition staff in our Empty Homes Unit are available to provide further advice.”
A member of the Empty Homes Unit can be contactred by telephoning 03448 920900 or by emailing [email protected].
