Like many of you, I have observed numerous buildings in our community, sitting unoccupied. These buildings are wasting away when they could provide useful spaces for residents. Just a few weeks ago, a hospital driver was taking me home. During our conversation, he pointed out a building that had been unoccupied for 10 years - a whole decade! Imagine the effectiveness if this building was converted into a safe, comfortable home for those in need.

This wasteful practice of leaving buildings unoccupied, sometimes for years, speaks to a wider issue of unused resources and disregard for sustainable practices. As a community, we need to raise our voice against this.

It has been estimated that there are over 200,000 long-term unoccupied dwellings across England (source: UK Government official statistics, 2019). That's 200,000 opportunities for individuals or families to make a home.

Our request is simple yet powerful: we propose that any empty building unoccupied for six months or more should be issued with a compulsory purchase order, and be made suitable for residential purposes. Not only would this provide new homes for individuals or families in need, but it would also contribute to better urban planning, reduced wastage, and a more sustainable future.

This is a personal crusade and I am seeking support from like-minded citizens who believe in making the most of our urban spaces.

We cannot afford to ignore this issue any longer. Let's take a stand to convert unfulfilled potential into vibrant, lived-in homes. Please, sign this petition today. Your support counts and together we can make a difference!