A charity to bring empty homes in the city back into use has let its 100th property. Brighton & Hove Seaside Community Homes began leasing and refurbishing empty council properties in November last year. Since then it has refurbished and tenanted 100 empty properties and is currently refurbishing a further eighty five.
Lisa McGrath, 23, moved into her new home last week after coping with months of temporary accommodation in three different locations. She said: “I am so happy to be settled at last! I have never had my own kitchen before, or bath! I am so happy. I love it all!”
The two bedroom house has been completely refurbished with new carpets, kitchen and bathroom. Ms McGrath added that it was such a bonus to be able to move straight in without having to think about decorating or putting things right.
Seaside Homes Director Charles Bramly said: “There is a chronic need for affordable homes in Brighton & Hove. We have raised money in the private sector and refurbished homes that the council would otherwise have left vacant and un-refurbished due to lack of funds.
“We are pleased that we have been able to make such a difference to so many people so quickly. It shows what can be achieved in such a short space of time when agencies work in partnership. We are pleased Ms McGrath is happy with her new home and wish her and her family well for the future.”
Cllr Wakefield, who is also on the board of Seaside Homes, said: “I am delighted for Lisa and her family. Having a permanent home is vital to enable the family to set down roots so that they can develop and flourish while we know that a settled home is so important in children’s success at nursery and indeed school.”
