Over 150 empty properties have been brought back into use in the last year.

As part of their efforts to address the shortage of housing in Croydon, the council has returned 157 empty properties to use.

Around 1,300 homes in the borough have been empty for more than six months and empty property officers are scouring the borough for unused properties with an additional post set to be created to focus on accommodation above shops and businesses.

The council is working with three community interest companies in Croydon to bring empty properties into use and where landlords persist in leaving properties vacant, the council has the option of taking compulsory purchase order (CPO) action.

A CPO is expected to be served on a three bedroom house, with cabinet due to consider two further orders next month.

Councillor Dudley Mead, cabinet member for housing, said: "Empty homes are a wasted resource, especially when there is such a shortage of housing in Croydon.

"Bringing them back into use will help the council to increase its housing supply and accommodate families waiting for a home.

"Unused properties are also often in poor condition and are an eyesore to neighbours."

Residents are urged to report empty homes to the council by calling 0208 760 5470 or visiting croydon.gov.uk/housing/privatehousing/intro