23/04/2013

Hundreds Apply For £1 Homes In Stoke

More than 600 people have applied to buy homes in Stoke-on-Trent for £1 each.

According to the city council, 35 derelict homes, mainly two-bedroom terraced properties, will initially be sold off in the Cobridge area. A further 89 rundown homes will follow.

The £3m scheme will see the local authority offer loans of up to £30k to help complete essential repairs on the houses.

Speaking about the initial interest in the scheme, Stoke-on-Trent City Council said the first 35 properties would be randomly allocated to the successful candidates, but those living in the city would be given priority.

In return for buying the property, people would be required to renovate them and bring them back into use, as well as commit to living in the homes for at least five years.

Councillor Janine Bridges, responsible for housing, said the scheme would "see a rundown area of the city transformed".

She added: "The project will not only benefit the residents who are currently living next door to properties that have been vacant for some time, it will also give families moving into the homes the chance to take their first step on the property ladder."

Potential buyers have until 21 May to register their interest for a home.

(JP/CD)

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