Eltham: Residents of Spencer Gardens Get New life for their home

by Our Admin | Greenwixh

Spencer Gardens before. (Credit. via RBG)

Residents in Spencer Gardens, Eltham, breathed a sigh of relief when one of the properties was sold to a developer. It had been standing derelict and empty for about 20 years, and was in an appalling state.

Neighbours had constantly complained to the council, asking if something could be done.

Local Councillors and officers tried many times, without success, to persuade the owner to sell it.  So eventually steps were taken by the Royal Borough to issue a compulsory order.

Shortly after this process began, the owner sold it privately to a developer, who called in builders who restored it to modern standards. It is now a proper family home again, and has gone on the market. The original owner is now in sheltered accommodation.

Spencer Gardens after.
(Credit: RBG)

Cllr Chris Kirby, the Royal Borough’s Cabinet Member for Housing said: “There were complex legal issues here, and we supported and advised the owner throughout the process, trying to get the best for all involved."

“Empty properties can be an eyesore and can attract vandals or squatters. If brought back into use they can provide a home for people in housing need. We want to find out about long-term empty, privately-owned housing that has been abandoned or is derelict. We will make contact with the owners and offer them support to bring their properties back into use. Where properties have been neglected over a long period of time we will consider taking action to bring about their improvement to get them back into use.”

To report a long-term empty property in the Royal Borough, contact the Disability and Home Improvement team on 020 8921 2862 or email: emptyhomes@royalgreenwich.gov.uk.

Loans and grants may be available for owners of empty properties to help meet the costs of repairs and improvements - more at: www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/emptyproperties.