Capital and Lothians win biggest share to renovate empty houses which are ‘blight on communities’

EDINBURGH and the Lothians are the largest recipients in Scotland of extra funding to bring empty homes back into use for homeless families.

More than £1 million will help private owners renovate properties in exchange for them being made available as affordable housing for at least five years.

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the move was far cheaper than building new properties and newly available homes would house hundreds of people, many of whom may be in substandard or temporary accommodation.

In many cases, the properties have been inherited after a relative has died. However, the new owners do not have enough cash to refurbish to a standard where the home could be let out, and are unable to sell.

Ms Sturgeon said: “Empty homes are a blight on many communities across Scotland. Standing empty, these properties are no use to anyone. Renovated, they could provide much needed new homes for hundreds of people. Bringing empty homes back into use makes sense because it is a cost- effective way of increasing the supply of housing available to families.”

Edinburgh received £750,000 to refurbish 70 properties, more than any other local authority area.

West Lothian was handed £150,000 for 32 properties, Midlothian £125,000 for ten properties, and