Council highlights work to reduce empty homes during National Empty Homes Week
As National Empty Homes Week (9-15 March) begins, Forest of Dean District Council is highlighting the ongoing work to bring long‑term empty properties back into use and help increase the supply of much‑needed homes across the district.
Recent figures show that there are currently 501 long‑term empty homes in the Forest of Dean, properties that have been vacant for more than six months.
Supporting owners to bring homes back into use
The Council’s Empty Homes Officer works directly with owners to understand why properties have become empty and to provide practical advice and support. This includes:
- guidance on selling, renting or refurbishing
- advice on Council Tax discounts and exemptions
- information on long‑term empty premiums
- access to grant funding (where eligible)
- VAT confirmation letters allowing contractors to charge a reduced 5% VAT rate on many repairs for homes empty over two years
Many owners face complex personal, financial or health challenges, and early contact helps avoid additional costs and ensures they receive clear, tailored advice.
Where informal engagement does not lead to progress, the Council may consider enforcement options alongside the Environmental Health, Planning and Legal teams.
Recent success
One long‑term empty home, left vacant for several years following inheritance, was brought back into use after the Council provided clear guidance on selling. The owners had believed they would need to pay estate agency fees upfront and felt unable to move forward.
After speaking with the Empty Homes Officer, the family placed the property on the open market, and it sold within a week. The new owner has since completed a full refurbishment, returning the home to use and improving the surrounding neighbourhood.
Reflecting on their experience, the former owner said the Council had been “very supportive and understanding” throughout the process, support that helped them take the steps needed to resolve a situation that had become increasingly difficult for the family.
Cabinet Member for Thriving Communities, Cllr Jackie Dale, said:
“Empty homes are a wasted resource at a time when many local people are struggling to find suitable housing.
“By working alongside owners, we can transform these properties into lived‑in homes that strengthen our communities.
“National Empty Homes Week is a timely reminder that support is available, and we encourage anyone with an empty property to get in touch.”
Encouraging owners to come forward
The Council is urging anyone who owns or knows of a long‑term empty home in the district to contact the council for advice. Early engagement helps owners avoid unnecessary costs and ensures properties are brought back into use as quickly as possible.
More information is available on the Forest of Dean District Council website: https://www.fdean.gov.uk/housing/private-housing/empty-homes/