Empty garages, council houses and land could be a thing of the past under new proposals launched by the government this week.

The ‘Right to Regenerate’ proposals will allow the public to convert vacant plots of land and derelict buildings into new homes or community spaces.

The public will be able to convert vacant plots of land and derelict buildings into new homes or community spaces, under plans announced on 16 January 2021 by the Housing Secretary, Robert Jenrick MP.

The ‘Right to Regenerate’ proposals would make it easier to challenge councils and other public organisations to release land for redevelopment – helping communities make better use of public land and give a new lease of life to unloved buildings. Underused public land could be sold to individuals or communities by default, unless there is a compelling reason the owner should hold onto it.

Under the proposals, public bodies would need to have clear plans for land in the near future, even if only a temporary use before later development – if the land is kept for too long without being used, they would be required to sell it. These measures provide an opportunity for the public and local communities to redevelop and transform eyesores, taking control of unused local land or buildings and transforming them into something they want in their area.