Credit: Bury Times
Rise in Long-Term Vacant Homes in Bury Raises Concerns
Cardwells Estate Agents notes a concerning trend in Bury, where new government data reveals a surge in the number of long-term empty homes. According to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC), the count rose from 1,086 to 1,123 in Bury as of October, with 146 of these properties under local authority ownership. While this increase mirrors a broader national trend, it underscores specific challenges within the borough’s housing sector, prompting reflections on potential implications for the community.
Assessing the Landscape: Long-Term Vacant Properties in Greater Manchester
Analysing the data alongside neighbouring boroughs in Greater Manchester provides valuable context on the regional dynamics of long-term vacant properties. While Bury’s increase stands at 16 per cent over the past five years, it pales in comparison to the 89 per cent surge in Rochdale and the 27 per cent rise in Bolton. Conversely, Oldham witnessed a more modest increase of just five per cent. Andrew Cardwell, Managing Director at Cardwells Estate Agents, emphasises the multifaceted nature of property vacancy, citing factors such as bereavement or property availability for letting. He also highlights the potential correlation between vacant properties and community challenges, as discussed in the October 2023 Empty Housing research briefing. Despite the cyclic nature of property occupation, Cardwell notes the need for proactive measures to address vacant properties effectively. Highlighting initiatives like National Empty Homes Week, he echoes calls for a nationally funded Empty Homes Programme to empower local councils in tackling this issue. In response, DLUHC underscores ongoing efforts to reduce long-term empty homes, emphasising measures such as increased council tax and compulsory purchase orders, aligning with their long-term housing plan aimed at delivering one million homes in this parliamentary term.
