Council to sell house left empty for years

The property in Lower Rushton Road, Laisterdyke, is one of four derelict houses recently taken into ownership by Bradford Council and which officers want to bring back into use.

The house became empty in 1992 and led to years of discussions over ownership, keeping the site secure and searching for alternative occupiers.

However, after no progress was made the council was forced to begin compulsory purchase order proceedings in 2006. The order was confirmed by the Government in 2009.

Officers say the acquisition complements separate improvements to neighbouring houses.

Before being sold, the property will become a “house of the future” as part of the British Science Festival, taking place in Bradford next month, when people will be able to see the latest energy efficiency technology to help reduce fuel bills.

Action is also being taken at properties in Mandeville Crescent, Buttershaw, which is going on the market having been renovated, and in Sandholme Drive, Thorpe Edge, and Powell Avenue on the Canterbury Estate, which are both to be refurbished and re-sold after being bought by the council.

Councillor Val Slater, the council’s executive member responsible for housing, said: “By bringing these homes back into use we are not only creating more affordable housing but also removing empty properties.

“Vacant and derelict houses can become a magnet for anti-social and vandalism and cause a massive blight on communities.”

David Shepherd, the council’s assistant director for housing and skills, added: “Renovations have also been completed on neighbouring properties in the road so this is the final piece of a jigsaw which has made a major difference to the area.”