A scheme to help bring some of Burnley’s derelict empty homes back to life has proven to be a huge success as it enters into its third year.
The Empty Homes Programme was formed in 2017 by The Calico Group and Burnley Borough Council and is supported by Homes England. It refurbishes empty homes and makes them available for affordable rent and accessible to people on low incomes.
The current phase is focusing on the Burnley Wood area, transforming 35 properties into vibrant, clean and safe homes and has attracted the attention of other local authorities who have requested that Calico Homes and Ring Stones Maintenance and Construction collaborate with them on their own Empty Homes Programmes.
The programme is already making a real difference to people’s lives.
A current tenant said: “When choosing a home, I looked for a nice, clean and warm home. This property met my expectations and more, and it is great to live in a home free from disrepair issues. All in all, I have had a really positive experience with Calico”.
The work is being completed to a high standard by Ring Stones, with homes being let within just three weeks of being advertised and still has the original tenants living in them.
Lisa Bell, Development Manager at Calico Homes, advised that Calico are really pleased with the progress being made on the Empty Homes Project and the positive effect this is already having on the Neighbourhood and their customers.
Councillor Ivor Emo, Burnley Council’s Executive Member for Housing and Environment, said: “It’s great to see initiatives like this that have such a positive impact on communities and it’s another good example of partnership working that is improving the lives of our residents.
“This scheme builds upon wider work the council has been carrying out across our borough for more than a decade to bring long-term empty and often poorly maintained houses back into use to create affordable and attractive new homes.”
