Bringing empty homes in the borough back into use is a priority for Swindon Borough Council for a number of reasons.

There is a shortage of housing in the town and empty homes can be a focus for crime and anti-social behaviour or vermin.

The council has been sharing stories of where it has been able to help the owners of empty homes get them back into use and occupation.

A spokesman for the council posted: “Last year, our empty homes team was successful in working with an owner and their social worker about her empty home in Rodbourne.

“After discussing the options available, the owner agreed it would be in her best interests for her to sell the property.

“The owner was unable to continue to maintain her home due to her care needs.

“The property started to fall into despair, with burst pipes causing water damage, plus heavily overgrown gardens which were affecting both neighbours and the local community.”

The spokesman said the empty homes team worked with the woman’s social worker and this resulted in the sale of the house in December and full exchange in February.

Anyone with concerns about an empty home in their neighbourhood the team at emptyhomes@swindon.gov.uk or visit the council’s website.