TWO homes that have been left empty for more than six years will soon be back in use after Compulsory Purchase Orders were issued on the properties. Tower Hamlets council says its officers have been working with the property owners since 2004 in an effort

TWO homes that have been left empty for more than six years will soon be back in use after Compulsory Purchase Orders were issued on the properties.

Tower Hamlets council says its officers have been working with the property owners since 2004 in an effort to see the empty homes refurbished and let to tenants.

But the officers were forced to recommend the CPO after the owners failed to act.

The two homes are part of the council's broader plans to see empty properties brought back into use in a bid to reduce the borough's housing demand.

There are currently 23,000 families on Tower Hamlets council's housing waiting list.

Tower Hamlets council's sustainability Jackie Odunoye said: "Homes are left empty for many reasons, but in most cases these properties should be brought up to standard and reused.

"The council is working to make this happen by proactively approaching empty property owners and giving them advice and guidance.

"We also assist by providing grant aid to fund renovation work. Grants range from �15,000 to �35,000 depending on the property's size and we work with owners every step of the way to make the process as easy as possible.

"There are many options available to empty property owners and the council are able to advise the best solution for each individual home.

"CPOs are a last resort, but the council will take this action if all other attempts to encourage owners to bring a property back into use have failed.