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Bid to clear repairs backlog

THERE are “far too many” empty council properties either waiting for repairs or undergoing repairs in Gateshead, according to council officers.

A total of 405 empty council properties are currently undergoing repairs or are waiting for repairs. However, “ambitious” targets could see the number drop to 150 by September.

Councillors were told new management styles and a successful recruitment drive have helped increase the productivity of the repairs team.

Ian McLackland, service director of repairs and building maintenance at Gateshead Council, said: “The key focus now is the empty properties, the void properties. There are still far too many empty properties in a poor condition and we have far too many properties requiring investment. That is still a work in progress, we still have 405 empty properties which are undergoing work or requiring work. The aim is to have less than 150 by the end of the autumn.”

Councillor Tom Graham acknowledged the frustration empty houses caused the residents of his ward.

Coun Graham said: “What happens to us as elected members is we will get a phone call about an empty house, ideal for a resident’s son or daughter but has been empty for six months. And they’d say you can build a house in six months.”

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2023-03-20T07:00:00.0000000Z

2023-03-20T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://thejournal.pressreader.com/article/281569474967631

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