Empty homes across Liverpool are a 'drain on council resources'

Dozens of vacant properties across Liverpool are a “drain” on council resources and must be disposed of, according to a report.

Liverpool Council is to offload more than 60 empty homes that it took ownership of for regeneration purposes as changes in policy mean the buildings are now costing the local authority money that it will not make back. A briefing to members of its strategic development and housing select committee said currently tens of thousands pounds a year is being spent on homes that sit unoccupied.

The report said the properties were acquired with the intention of being demolished as part of a site assembly or to refurbish for affordable housing. However, the houses are now seen as “a drain on council resources and cost approximately £40,000 pa to hold.