May Conference: Kent No Use Empty initiative becomes Gold Supporter

We are pleased to announce that the Kent No Use Empty Initiative has become a Gold Supporter for the National Empty Homes Conference organised by the Empty Homes Network for 20th May 2015 in Birmingham. The Kent initiative has established a fantastic track record on delivery and aspects of its model have now been exported to Wales and to the West of England partnership of four authorities around Bristol. Support from No Use Empty represents a big vote of confidence in our Conference. About No Use Empty Background No Use Empty (NUE), launched by Kent County Council (KCC), celebrates its 10th Anniversary in 2015. All 12 authorities in Kent participate in the initiative to substantially increase the number of long term empty homes returned to use as good quality housing through a range of interventions. Loan scheme Empty property owners can apply for a loan of up to £25,000 per unit to a maximum of £175,000. Kent County Council has issued £12M loans since 2005. The loans have leveraged additional private funding of £16M, ensuring local businesses and contractors benefit with monies being spent on materials as well as job creation or safe-guarding jobs. Awards No Use Empty has created over 3,700 new homes to date and was “Highly Commended” in the LGC Awards 2015 for Best Housing Initiative and Partnership Working categories.