Bringing empty homes back into use

Work to try to identify and help bring empty properties back into use across Orkney is picking up pace thanks to a growing network of dedicated Empty Homes Officers.

Rachael Batty was appointed to the role of Development and Empty Homes Officer at Orkney Islands Council in May 2021 and is delighted to be part of what she sees as the “opportunity to assist in building a sustainable future for our islands”.

Rachael has joined a growing network of 25 empty homes officers across Scotland and is the first dedicated empty homes officer within the county since 2019.

She sees a key part of the job as engaging with homeowners and communities to help bring empty homes back into use.

"I’m looking forward to working with homeowners and communities across Orkney to help to increase the supply of useable housing which is vital for our island community to thrive well into the future.

“I would encourage any empty homeowners who are interested in bringing some life back to their properties to get in touch."

According to the National Records of Scotland, in 2020 Orkney had the third highest level of vacant dwellings within Scotland with an estimated 5.6% of the housing stock lying empty. Rachael will be working to identify and help bring these empty properties back into use.

She continued: “A large part of the role is engaging on an individual basis with owners, who I am always happy to have get in touch with me. I can help by directing owners towards valuable advice and support, help them access discounts for renovating, and generally just be there to help with any of their problems or concerns when bringing homes back into use.

“I also run an Empty Homes Matchmaker Scheme matching those wishing to sell an empty property with those looking to buy one. It’s a great service for those who are struggling to sell their long-term empty property.”

Alongside her work on empty homes, Rachael will work with community groups and private companies to support and secure funding for housing projects, and support the council’s own house build projects.

She added: “It’s really interesting to be in such a diverse role. Housing is big priority for the Council, so it’s exciting to be part of that.”

For more information check out the empty homes web page.