One idea on this: seize any lot that has been vacant for four decades. If the private sector doesn't want any utility, then the public will take it.
@philipjohn - almost 7 years ago
Yep, sounds interesting. We currently have this on empty properties:
Empty Properties Residential properties that have been empty for more than 12 months will automatically attract a 100% increase in council tax.
A landlord of a property that has been unoccupied for 12 months or more can, once the property has been occupied for 12 months or more, claim a 6 month rebate on the council tax paid before the property was occupied.
Government-backed lending schemes will be offered to landlords with unoccupied residential properties that require refurbishment or repair in order to get them back into use.
@Floppy - almost 7 years ago
The author didn't add any more detail