Merthyr Tydfil Council addresses high-risk empty properties

Merthyr Tydfil Council is taking action on seven properties that have been vacant for more than a decade, deemed high-risk in a recent assessment.

The Merthyr Tydfil Council has identified seven properties that have remained vacant for over ten years, classifying them as high-risk in a recent assessment. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to address long-term vacant properties within the region.

The assessment, conducted as part of a report presented to the council’s Thriving scrutiny committee on Tuesday, June 16evaluated all properties that have been empty for more than a decade. The council committed to assessing all remaining properties by March 31, 2027.

High-risk properties and their current status

The seven high-risk properties are located across various wards in Merthyr Tydfil. Three of these properties are in the Park wardone in the Plymouth wardone in Gurnosone in Dowlais and Pantand one in Treharris.

Each property has undergone specific actions based on its condition and ownership status. For instance, the owner of the first property was advised about VAT reliefs and has indicated plans to renovate the property for the rental market. The second property’s owner has applied for planning permission to renovate and develop additional units within the grounds.

For the third property, a notice was served under the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949. Due to non-compliance, works in default were carried out, and the next step involves starting the enforced sale procedure. The fourth property faces demolition costs that exceed the land value, making it currently non-viable for redevelopment. Inquiries with internal services and housing associations regarding potential redevelopment and grant support have yielded no interest due to high costs.

The fifth property is now occupied, while no action is possible at this time for the sixth property due to lack of owner contact details. Enforcement actions have been taken against the previous owner of the seventh property, which has since been introduced to a local developer who has started renovation work. Although exterior works are complete, the property remains empty.

Ongoing efforts and future plans

The council acknowledges that these high-risk cases are often complex and resource-intensive. Despite not having dedicated resources solely for delivering the strategy, progress continues to be made. During the 2026-26 financial yearall properties empty for over five years (totaling 89) were risk-assessed, identifying four additional high-risk properties.

An action plan will be developed for each of these newly identified high-risk properties. Properties that have been empty for over two years but less than five years are set to be assessed in the 2026-27 financial year. This systematic approach ensures that the council can effectively manage and address the challenges posed by long-term vacant properties.