CHESHIRE West and Chester Council has spoken again of its aim to bring 900 homes back into use, ahead of national Empty Homes Week.

There are about 200,000 empty homes across the UK, with 2,200 of these in west Cheshire.

The Empty Homes charity highlights how the nation’s empty homes are a wasted resource.

This year’s Empty Homes Week will showcase and inspire examples of bringing empty properties back into use.

Ahead of the week, Cheshire West and Chester Council has reminded residents about its aim to bring back into use 900 long term empty homes by 2020.

Cllr Angela Claydon, cabinet member for housing, said: “We met last year’s target of bringing 150 empty properties back into use and the Empty Homes Team is on track to meet the current financial years target to bring 190 empty home back into use.

“To help we are running Empty Home Surgeries on the first Tuesday of each month.

“The surgery will allow owners to speak with staff and find out about the range of measures available to help bring their empty home back into use.”

In addition to advice and support, there are a range of grants available to help empty home owners who need to carry out any necessary improvement works to their home. A conversion grant is also available to landlords and/or property developers providing financial assistance towards refurbishment costs for recently purchased empty homes.

The next Empty Home Surgery is on Tuesday, November 7, in Winsford Library from 11am to 1pm. For details call 0300 123 7038.