Lewisham Council is using all the powers at its disposal to tackle absentee landlords and their derelict properties that are a nightmare for local people.
Rushey Green residents are delighted that a derelict property on their street described as a “honey pot” for arson, squatters and anti-social behaviour has been transformed into new flats.
Cllr Susan Wise, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, said: “This property has really blighted the street and led to a host of problems for the police and fire brigade. We will not shy from using compulsory purchase, foreclosure and new empty dwelling management orders on landlords that refuse to work with the council.”
The derelict house has been transformed after the council, as a last resort, threatened the absentee landlords with a compulsory purchase order.
Lewisham Council issued a £55,000 grant toward transforming the property into three totally refurbished flats.
The large Edwardian house was left empty after being inherited by siblings that couldn’t agree on selling or developing the building.
The council’s offers of help were not taken-up and residents had to endure fires, break-ins, squatters and increased levels of anti-social behaviour as a result.
Mrs Heria, who lives next door to the property, said: “I am delighted to see this property brought back into use. It was a real worry - fires, rubbish being dumped -it was a living hell having to live next door.”
The property has now been bought by an accredited local landlord and will be rented-out in accordance with local housing allowance levels.
Borough Fire Commander, Dave Smith, said: "This property was a real problem for the fire service locally. Arsonists had targeted the property on numerous occasions and we were very concerned. I am pleased that our joint work with the authority has resulted in allowing us to cross off another arson prone property. It's great to see this property refurbished and providing homes for those in housing need".