Owners of empty homes can now apply for grants up to £10,000 to get their properties back into use.

Allerdale council is encouraging people to apply for a grant as part of National Empty Homes Week.

It is encouraging people to apply for a grant as part of National Empty Homes Week.

Grants are available for homes that have been empty for more than 12 months to cover up to 75 per cent of the price of the works.

Eligible works include energy efficiency and renewable energy measures to reduce fuel poverty and carbon emissions; works to bring the property up to the Decent Homes Standard; fire safety measures and home security measures.

Carni McCarron-Holmes, executive member with responsibility of housing, said: "These grants are often a great help to property owners who are struggling to maintain an empty building and find a suitable use for it. We want all properties to be in use, so I would urge anyone with an empty property to contact our housing team who will be able to provide as much support and advice as needed."

Applicants will be expected to fund 25 per cent of the works.

For more information contact Allerdale council's housing services team on 0303 123 1702 or email housing.services@allerdale.gov.uk.