In the quiet village of Veryan on the Roseland peninsula, an affordable home intended for local families has remained empty for nine years, sparking anger and disbelief among the community and local councillors. Despite a critical housing crisis and repeated calls for action, the property, overseen by housing association LiveWest, is only now seemingly about to welcome new residents after a near-decade of vacancy.
Key Takeaways
- An affordable home in Veryan, Cornwall, has stood empty for nine years
- Local councillors and residents are frustrated over the long-term vacancy amid a housing shortage
- The property required extensive repairs due to an unauthorised loft conversion by a previous occupant
- LiveWest claims a buyer is finally in place following several failed attempts to sell
Community Frustration Mounts Over Unused Housing
Villagers and local officials have voiced strong dissatisfaction as the prolonged vacancy highlights the severity of Cornwall’s housing crisis. The Park an Dreas estate, established in the early 1990s, offers a blend of rental and shared ownership properties and has served as a vital resource for young local families priced out of neighbouring areas.
However, the continued emptiness of this home, along with another property in the same estate, has left leaders exasperated. Councillors argue that keeping social housing unoccupied during a pronounced housing shortage undermines community well-being, with many families still waiting for a place to call home.
Challenging Circumstances Delayed Re-Occupation
LiveWest, the housing association responsible for the oversight of the property, attributed the delays in occupation to complex building issues. The previous resident had altered the property with an unauthorised loft conversion, necessitating considerable remedial work to ensure the home met safety standards. Although repairs were completed last year, finding a suitable buyer proved challenging, with several initial prospects withdrawing due to personal circumstances.
Renewed Hope as a Buyer Steps Forward
After years of frustration and unmet promises, LiveWest announced that a buyer is now in place for the long-vacant home and expressed hope that the new occupants would move in soon. The news brings cautious optimism to local campaigners who have struggled to see the property put to its intended use during a critical time for housing in the region.
Broader Issues Highlighted by One Empty Home
The situation in Veryan speaks to wider housing management concerns in Cornwall, where high property prices limit options for local families. Community figures maintain that better stewardship of existing affordable homes is essential in combatting the ongoing crisis, ensuring available housing benefits those most in need rather than remaining dormant for years.
Looking Ahead: Lessons and Actions
- Proper maintenance and timely repairs are crucial in ensuring affordable homes are not lost to bureaucracy or neglect
- Coordinated efforts between local authorities and housing associations are needed to address backlogs in occupancy
- Increased transparency and accountability may help prevent similar long-term vacancies in the future
Sources:
- ‘Beyond belief’ that affordable home in Cornwall village is still empty after nine years, Cornwall Live.
- Affordable home in Cornwall still empty after nine years, BBC.
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Cornwall Community Outraged as Affordable Home Sits Vacant for Nine Years