Derby City Council

Derby City Council is marking National Empty Homes Week, in conjunction with Action on Empty Homes, the national charity campaigning for empty homes to be brought into use. This year’s focus is on the use of enforcement powers to secure change.

Derby City Council is known nationally for its use of compulsory purchase powers and its success rate where these powers are employed. Even where the power used, the Council still tries to secure engagement from the property owner and a voluntary solution is preferred. The most recent compulsory purchase order started by the Council has sparked action by the property owner and the council is regularly monitoring progress. Continuing with the formal process may not be necessary in this instance, which reduces costs for the council and has empowered the property owner.

Not all owners are prompted to action by the use of enforcement powers. Recently, the Council has enforced sale of a property where the proprietor owed debts to the Council. The property had a rat infestation, but the owner did not deal with this. After service of legal notices, the Council tackled the infestation and removed the rubbish providing harborage for the rats. The extent of the rubbish can be seen in the photograph.

 The owner failed to pay the Council for the work that it did and so debt recovery powers were used to enforce sale of the property. In addition to the original debt, the Council has been able to recover all administrative and associated costs. This provides excellent value for money for city residents. The new owner of the property is now carrying out of program of work so it can be occupied soon.

The Council is about to start enforced sale proceedings for another property where work was required because an owner failed to take action.

The Empty Homes Team is working hard to gain the recognition it has for compulsory purchase for enforcing sale, where relevant debts exist.