Northumberland County Council has given the green light to demolish over 100 council homes in Blyth, citing limited demand and the necessity for more suitable, energy-efficient housing options.
The decision, ratified during the council’s recent cabinet meeting, targets 65 flats and 38 maisonettes identified as low-demand properties. According to council representatives, the one-bedroom units fail to meet current housing needs, with an excess of empty homes despite a housing register boasting over 4,000 individuals.
While the specific streets affected were not disclosed, current tenants will receive notifications regarding the proposed demolition. The council has assured that those affected will receive compensation for home loss and disturbance should relocation become necessary.
Speaking on the matter, the portfolio holder for housing acknowledged the negative assessment of the properties while emphasising it did not reflect on the tenants. “There is very, very low demand and a lot of these homes are standing empty causing a lot of anti-social behaviour,” they stated, citing frequent vandalism and necessary repairs. “Nobody wants these properties now, they don’t serve a purpose. There is very low demand for one-bedroom flats.”
Highlighting the inadequacies of the existing structures, dating back to the 1960s, the council’s report underscored significant defects requiring costly repairs if left untouched. The portfolio holder for housing stressed the necessity of demolition, asserting the council’s commitment to prioritising tenant rehousing while pursuing the construction of new, modern dwellings.
The decision reflects a broader effort to address the evolving housing needs of the community, focusing on properties that align with current demands for larger, family-friendly accommodations. With an eye towards the future, the council aims to utilise vacant sites for the construction of energy-efficient homes tailored to meet the expectations of prospective residents.
As the demolition plans proceed, attention turns to the rehousing process and the development of sustainable solutions to accommodate Blyth’s housing requirements. This initiative signals a proactive approach by Northumberland County Council to revitalise housing infrastructure and provide residents with housing options better suited to contemporary lifestyles.
