Latest figures show that over the past year the numbers of long-term empty homes has fallen by over 21,000 - the biggest year-on-year drop since 2004.
On a visit to Redcar, Communities Minister Andrew Stunell made clear that it was a top Government priority to bring empty properties across the country back into use, and ensure these are available for people in need of a new home.
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Councils, housing associations and voluntary groups can apply for a share of £100 million Government funding to help bring more empty homes back into use. The recent Housing Strategy also included an additional £50 million to help areas with the worst concentrations of empty properties, whilst the Coalition is also consulting on giving councils the power to charge an Empty Homes Premium - worth up to 50 per cent of council tax - on properties that have been left vacant for more than two years.
Mr Stunell said: "The number of empty homes in this country is a national scandal. There is a clear and pressing need for new homes in this country, yet for every two families that need a home there is one standing empty.
"That's why I've made tackling the blight of empty homes a top priority for the Coalition. Communities that bring these properties back into use can benefit from extra cash through the New Homes Bonus, and we've made £150 million available to help councils and charities take radical action in this area."
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