Open Market Purchase Scheme in North Lanarkshire significantly boosts housing supply

dailyrecord.co.uk:

The Open Market Purchase Scheme (OMPS) in North Lanarkshire has made significant strides in bolstering housing supply, with a focus on improving stock conditions and addressing housing needs.

The OMPS helps support the council's new build supply programme, with 126 homes purchased during the 2023/24 period. Michael McPake, convener of housing explained: “Over the years, the scheme has helped with the acquisition of hundreds of properties, including former council housing and empty properties.The Lanarkshire Live app is available to download now.

Get all the news from your area – as well as features, entertainment, sport and the latest on Lanarkshire’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic – straight to your fingertips, 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories, and allows you to customise your page to the sections that matter most to you.Head to the App Store and never miss a beat in Lanarkshire - iOS - Android "It has also allowed us to complete council ownership of blocks to allow us to carry out much-needed communal repairs. “Through the expansion of the scheme, we are now able to purchase directly from private landlords, and this has allowed us to prevent homelessness and provide quality housing for families and people to rent in areas of high demand. “By acquiring privately-owned properties, we are not only increasing housing supply but also revitalising communities.” In 2021, the scheme was expanded to include the acquisition of homes that enable common works in priority blocks and, in August 2022, the program was further expanded to consider purchasing properties from private landlords, allowing tenants to remain in their homes as council tenants.An update on the progress