A major milestone has been reached in tackling long-term empty homes in South Cambridgeshire, with 75 properties brought back into use in the last three years.
Success stems from the District Council’s strategic decision to appoint an Empty Homes Officer in 2022 - an initiative that has transformed neglected properties into vibrant homes for new families, eased housing pressures, and revitalised communities across the district.
Cllr Natalie Warren Green, Lead Cabinet Member for Environment for South Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “A recent case involved a home in Comberton, which had been empty for 17 years with an overgrown garden. Thanks to our intervention and support the property has been renovated and sold as a striking modern home for a new family. The work to enable this highlights the dedication and persistence required to bring long-term vacant properties back into use and showcases the transformative work happening quietly behind the scenes by our Empty Homes Officer. Their role supports families, unlocks housing potential, and breathes new life into communities. We’re committed to tackling empty properties and creating opportunities for them to become homes again. This is a fantastic example of what can be achieved with the right support. We encourage anyone who either owns or knows of an empty property to get in touch. Whether it’s been vacant for years or just recently, we’re here to help bring it back into use - and make a real difference to local neighbourhoods.”
The Comberton property had been empty since 2008 following a family bereavement. Although probate was granted in 2010 and ownership was subsequently transferred, no action was taken for over a decade.
Council Tax bills on the property had reached £8,000 a year – despite being empty - due to its prolonged vacancy.
A case was opened by the Empty Homes Officer who began engaging with the owners. Over the following months, the officer made multiple visits, sent letters, and even spoke with neighbours to understand the property’s history.
With no response, an enforced sale was considered, but eventually, one of the owners responded. The family, previously divided on what to do, were prompted by the Council’s letters to make a united decision to sell the property.
A family member took ownership and began preparing the home for sale. With the help of the Empty Homes Officer a garden clearance was arranged and once sold, VAT reduction documentation was provided for the developer, to assist financially with the transformative renovation works.
The property was listed for sale this year and within weeks it was sold and a new family moved in.
To find out more about our work bringing empty homes back into use visit our webpage.
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