TOUGH action is on the way to put empty houses in order.

From April 1 new legislation means houses needing major repairs will only be exempt from Council Tax for a maximum of 12 months.

The Council will then charge the owners half the Council Tax due while the property is vacant, and will enforce measures to try to bring the house back in to use.

Finance chairman Cllr Brian Strett said: "We listen carefully to residents' views and know many are fed-up with an empty house blighting their street.

"They have our total sympathy.

"One empty house can lead to a downward spiral of dereliction for an entire street.

"We hope being charged half Council Tax will make owners think carefully about leaving houses empty. But if it doesn't work there are plenty of enforcement options.

"Over the past three years these measures have brought 60 empty homes back in to use. Owners have faced repair notices, bills for serving notices and work done in default, the cost of prosecutions or compulsory purchase orders.

"Our message is simple. People who live near you have had enough. Either sell it, or repair it, and bring it back in to use."

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