Merthyr Tydfil Council is making significant progress in its efforts to bring empty properties back into use, consistently exceeding its annual target. The council's Empty Property Strategy for 2022–2026 aims to bring 7% of vacant properties back into use each year, with a goal of 200 properties by the end of the strategy period.
Performance Data Shows Consistent Progress
According to a report presented to the council's Thriving scrutiny committee, the number of long-term empty properties in Merthyr Tydfil has decreased over the past four years. In 2022–23, there were 582 long-term empty properties, of which 41 (7.04%) were brought back into use. The following year, 2023–24, saw 529 properties with 39 (7.37%) returned to use. In 2024–25, 43 out of 539 properties (8%) were brought back, and in 2025–26, 47 out of 479 properties (9.8%) were returned to use.
The report confirms that performance has met or exceeded the 7% annual target in each year of the strategy, indicating that the council is on track to achieve its overall goal of 200 properties by the end of the strategy period.
Interventions and Financial Assistance
In 2025–26, the council employed 46 interventions to bring properties back into use. These included 25 financial assistance grants, 15 instances of advice and guidance, two enforcement actions, two leasing schemes, and two direct interventions through council tax.
The National Empty Property Grant Scheme, administered by Rhondda Cynon Taf on behalf of participating local authorities including Merthyr Tydfil, has been a key tool. Launched in 2023–24, the scheme originally required a 10% match-funding contribution from the council. However, the Welsh Government has confirmed that for applications approved after April 1, 2026, this match-funding element will no longer be required. The scheme has also been extended until September 2026.
In Merthyr Tydfil, 10 grants were approved and 12 grants were completed in 2025–26. Since 2023–24, the council has paid out £522,863.60 in grant funding for 22 completed applications, with a total match funding contribution of £52,286.36. Currently, 13 applications approved before April 1, 2026, are awaiting completion, and the maximum match funding contribution for the council is £32,500.
Enforcement Activity
In 2025–26, the council received 27 complaints about empty properties. This led to 17 site visits, 11 notices served, six works in default, and three complaints referred from environmental health to planning.
The council's proactive approach is helping to revitalise communities and address housing needs in Merthyr Tydfil.
