The owners of thousands of empty homes in Glasgow are being urged to let their properties to combat a so-called ‘housing emergency.’

The city council – run by the Scottish National Party – claims there are over 2,500 vacant properties in Glasgow.

A council spokesperson says: “The supply of new housing has not kept pace with demand for decades – with the result that we currently have around 7,000 homeless applications and in excess of 4000 households living in temporary accommodation.

“At the same time, more than 2,500 homes in the city are lying empty.  That’s not sustainable.

“I’ve got an obligation – and a moral responsibility – to pursue any resource I can that might increase the supply of housing in the city.  Addressing the thousands of vacant properties in Glasgow could be one of the quickest and most cost-effective ways of making a major impact.”

The council says it’s steadily increased its use of Compulsory Purchase Orders to bring vacant homes back into use; but this is apparently bot the authority’s first preference.

The spokesperson adds: “I understand that there are all sorts of reasons why properties may have fallen out of use – and I want to do everything I can to support owners to create a home for someone in the city.  If that means selling empty property, we can offer information on investors who are looking to buy.

“If the owners want to rent out homes, we can provide support for private landlords or connect owners with charities that are expert in letting property to alleviate homelessness.  

“Where a home requires repairs or renovation to get it ready for rental, there are merchants’ discounts and VAT discounts that owners can take advantage of – and council officers can help them navigate that.”