Empty homes champion recognised Dumfries and Galloway Councils Empty Homes Officer Fiona Todd picked up an award at the Scottish Empty Homes Conference on Tuesday 26th November. Fiona was named outstanding individual because of her commitment to sharing best practice as well as her ability to establish relationships with property owners and other stakeholders. Fionas approach has meant two properties in Dumfries that had been in very poor condition are now being addressed by the owner after lying empty for 8 years, and in another case, a debt of £13,500 in council tax arrears is being addressed through recovery action. Fiona received her award from Margaret Burgess MSP, Minister for Housing and Welfare. The prestigious event which was organised by the Scottish Empty Homes Partnership and hosted by Shelter Scotland and funded by the Scottish Government. Councillor Colin Smyth, Chair of the Councils Economy, Environment and Infrastructure Committee said Well done to Fiona and her team, this award highlights the important work that has taken place in our region to bring empty homes back into use. Fionas time is split between working with our Council and Scottish Borders which is a good example of just how effective shared services can be. Graeme Brown, Director of Shelter Scotland said: I would like to congratulate all of the winners. These individuals and organisations have made a real difference to the empty homes agenda in Scotland. There are thousands of empty homes in Scotland and bringing them back to good use can provide local affordable housing and help regenerate local communities. The award winners included: • Outstanding Project, overall winner: Perth and Kinross Council • Outstanding Project, special mention: Falkirk Council • Outstanding Individual: Fiona Todd, Scottish Borders/Dumfries and Galloway Council • Best use of Media: Shirish Patel and Colin McGarva from Angus Council • Best Before and After: Colin McGarva from Angus Council Fiona Todd, Tony Brennan Regional Manager Camelot Vacant Property Management , Minister
Posted on: Tue, 03 Dec 2013 11:41:25 +0000
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