A LONG-TERM empty property has been fully restored and is ready for a new lease of life as a home for people who were previously homeless.

Thanks to funding from Cheshire West and Chester Council, property owner James Darragh has been able to transform the Alan Street building, which stood empty for several years.

It has now had required complete renovation in order to bring it up to standard and provide much-needed accommodation.

Northwich Guardian:

How the property looked before its renovation

Cllr Richard Beacham, cabinet member for housing, regeneration and growth, said: “As a council, we are very keen to bring as many empty properties back into use as we can.

"There is great demand for accommodation across the borough with more than 9,000 people on our housing register requiring affordable housing.

"It is great to hear that Mr Darragh has brought this former long-term empty home back into use.”

Northwich Guardian:

The house needed plenty of work doing to it

The newly refurbished home will provide supported accommodation to individuals who had previously been homeless with residents being supported by Forfutures, the council's homeless support service.

Cllr Beacham added: “The council`s empty homes grant is there to assist those individuals who wish to work with the council to bring former empty properties back into use and provide housing for people on our housing register.

"This is a win-win all round as Mr Darragh has benefited from accessing the empty homes grant, which has created a four-bedroom shared house, and individuals in housing need have been able to access much-needed housing.”

Northwich Guardian:

The home's new-look entrance

The amount of empty homes grant available ranges from £2,000 to £10,000 and is subject to grant conditions and inspection by a council officer.

In return for financial assistance above £2000, the landlord is required to provide the council with nomination rights for a five-year period.

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Mr Darragh said: “I was really pleased when I was told that I could receive financial assistance in the form of an empty homes grant to help with the cost of the refurbishment.

Northwich Guardian:

New furniture and furnishings have been provided

"The property has now been converted, providing a home to four individuals who were previously homeless.”

For more information visit cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/emptyhomes, email emptyhomes@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk or call 0300 123 8037.