The plan builds on commitments made through the Local Housing Strategy and the Housing Emergency Action Plan, both of which recognise the critical role empty homes play in meeting housing need, regenerating communities and supporting population growth.

The region continues to face significant pressures on its housing system. With 8% of dwellings classed as ineffective – including almost 4% identified as long‑term empty – the volume of unused properties is notably higher than the national average.

The new Empty Homes Plan provides a framework to address these challenges, ensuring that long‑term empty properties can once again become quality homes for local people, while also contributing to wider regeneration efforts.

Recent progress includes the recruitment of a dedicated Empty Homes Officer, supported by match funding from the Scottish Government. This new role strengthens the council’s capacity to support owners, provide guidance on renovation and retrofit works and deliver targeted interventions.

The plan sets a clear annual target to bring 30 empty homes back into use, contributing directly to the Local Housing Strategy’s Housing Supply Target of 460 new or repurposed homes per year.

The plan also aligns closely with wider economic and community priorities. Returning empty homes to use can help sustain school rolls, boost town centre living, reduce local blight, and promote more sustainable patterns of development. Significant environmental benefits also stand to be gained, as renovating existing buildings typically requires less carbon and cost than new construction.

In addition, the council is playing a leading role in the development of a new Town Centre Living Impact Framework, with Dumfries serving as an exemplar location.

Working alongside the Scottish Futures Trust and South of Scotland Enterprise, the framework will strengthen understanding of how increased residential living can support vibrant town centres, improve wellbeing, and revitalise local economies. This work will help shape regeneration plans across communities throughout Dumfries and Galloway.

Councillor Andy Ferguson, chair of the committee, said: “Our Empty Homes Plan demonstrates the council’s commitment to addressing the region’s housing pressures in a practical and community‑focused way.

“By returning unused properties to the market, we are not only increasing housing supply but also breathing new life into communities, supporting local services and helping reverse population decline. This is a clear example of how targeted action can deliver meaningful change for residents.”

Vice‑chair of the committee, Councillor Tony Berretti, added: “This plan sets out a thoughtful and strategic approach that recognises the real challenges facing homeowners, communities and the housing system as a whole.

“By strengthening support, improving coordination and investing in an Empty Homes Officer, we are laying the groundwork for long‑term improvement. The benefits – from reducing dereliction to cutting carbon emissions – will be felt across our towns, villages and rural areas.”

The Empty Homes Plan 2026–2031 will be monitored annually by the Tackling Poverty, Inequalities and Housing Sub Committee, ensuring that progress remains transparent and aligned with the council’s wider commitments to building strong, sustainable and resilient communities.