London,
09
January
2015
|
09:03
Europe/London

Camden unveils top green homes for Empty Homes Week

A pair of previously empty homes have been brought back into use boasting high green credentials.

The two Haverstock Hill flats have Grade A energy performance certificates, putting them among less than one percent of homes in the UK to have such a high rating.Camden supported the refurbishment works as part of a deal with the landlord that’s seeing residents in need of housing moving in during Empty Homes Week.

Councillor Julian Fulbrook, Camden’s Cabinet Member for Housing, was at the property with Helen Williams, director of the Empty Homes Agency, after Camden signed up to the agency’s campaign to reduce empty homes across England.

Cllr Julian Fulbrook, Cabinet Member for Housing
“I’m delighted to see these homes back in use and available to our residents.

“Our empty homes grants are a great way of helping landlords with getting their property back on the market and providing homes to people in need.

“The properties’ green credentials are an excellent achievement too, which will save tenants money on their energy bills and reduce carbon emissions.

“I’m committed to environmentally friendly and responsible developments like this. It’s exactly what we need in many parts of Camden, and I hope to see more of these in future.”

The flats feature solar panels and a under floor heating system that saves energy and reduces carbon emissions.
Cllr Julian Fulbrook, Cabinet Member for Housing

Empty homes in CamdenCamden has brought over 130 homes back into use through empty homes grants.Landlords are offered grants to bring their properties back on the rental market.

In return, they provide these homes to tenants in priority need for 3-5 years.The Council also offers landlords a free lettings service, guaranteed rents and up to six months’ rent in advance. These schemes provide benefits for landlords and help Camden to find more homes for people in priority need.

Notes to editors

The attached images show:• Empty homes one – (left to right) Councillor Julian Fulbrook, Erik Alexander and Helen Williams• Empty homes two - The properties’ solar panels• Empty homes three – The interior of one of the flats