Jenrick unveils right to buy vacant council land

The government has announced new plans to give the public the right to convert vacant plots of council-owned land into new homes or community spaces.

Housing secretary Robert Jenrick said under the proposals, the public to have first right of refusal to buy underused land in England.

Under the ‘right to regenerate’, underused public land could be sold to individuals or communities by default, unless there is a compelling reason the owner should hold onto it.

Public bodies, like councils would also need to have clear plans for land in the near future, even if only a temporary use before later development – if the land is kept for too long without being used, they would be required to sell it.

These measures provide an opportunity for the public and local communities to redevelop and transform eyesores, taking control of unused local land or buildings and transforming them into something they want in their area.

A consultation on the plans runs until 13 March.

According to the government, the latest figures show there were over 25,000 vacant council owned homes and according to recent FOI data over 100,000 empty council-owned garages last year.

‘We are cutting through red tape so that communities can make better use of available land and derelict buildings, which means more new homes, businesses and community assets,’ said Mr Jenrick.

‘Millions of people will now be able to buy that empty property, unused garage or parcel of land and turn it into something good for them and their community.’

The propsosals were welcomed by the chief executive of the National Community Land Trust Network, Tom Chance.

‘There are hundreds of community land trusts across the country wanting to build much needed affordable housing, but getting hold of land at an affordable price is a huge barrier,’ said Mr Chance.

‘The potential for communities to be given first right of refusal could be a gamechanger. We encourage everyone to read through the proposals and respond to the consultation.’

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