Owners of unoccupied homes in Moray are to be offered assistance in getting them back into use by Moray Council.
Properties left empty over prolonged periods are a recognised issue for communities throughout Moray, as they often attract criminal activity and anti-social behaviour.
It can also be an issue for owners of neighbouring properties as neglected buildings an cause costly damage to adjacent homes.
Now Moray Council is preparing a draft ‘Empty Homes Strategy’ that will set out what the local authority can do to assist owners of empty properties. The strategy is being introduced following the recent decision by the council to introduce a Council Tax levy on long-term empty properties.
In a statement issued this week Moray Council said: “Some owners may require some advice, assistance, and in some circumstances financial support to bring their property back into use, and the strategy and presents some draft actions to provide that help.
“Before the council can implement the support for empty properties it needs to consult on its draft strategy.”
A survey has been produced and can be downloaded from the Moray Council website, while responses to the plans can be completed online.
The survey will close on Friday, December 19.