WREXHAM’S MP has welcomed plans to bring long-term empty properties across the town back into use.

Ian Lucas has spoken out in the past about ‘unsightly’ buildings and is pleased Wrexham Council’s Executive Board unanimously approved proposals to tackle the issue on Tuesday.

A scoring matrix is to be created to prioritise empty buildings which urgently require improvement work, while a specialist in-house group will be established so decisions can be made over what enforcement is required.

Mr Lucas has visited empty properties across Wrexham and spoken to those living close to them about their concerns.

He said: “It is all too clear that in Wrexham there are far too many unoccupied buildings, many of which are unsightly for residents and have stood empty for years. I have a great deal of sympathy for anyone living near one of these properties.

“Problems arise when owners are not willing to work with the local authority and make use of the various loan schemes available which would improve their properties.”

Mr Lucas, who first raised the issue with Wrexham Council several years ago, added: “I am pleased that, at long last, progress is being made. I know there have been historic problems over enforcement but I hope this will no longer be an issue under these new plans. Wrexham has an abundance of old buildings, many of which have excellent potential. The aim should be to put them to good use. If landlords will not co-operate, then they should be forced to do so.”

The council’s report into the issue confirms there are ‘a number of empty properties, commercial, retail and residential, across the county borough’. The exact number, however, is unknown.

The council has received support from the Labour Welsh Government, which has made tackling empty properties an increasing priority. It has supplied funding to Wrexham through initiatives such as the Houses into Homes and Vibrant and Viable Places schemes.