Article: Empty Homes Schemes and Initiatives Article Body Bringing Empty Homes back into use Barnsley Council are currently developing a range of targeted schemes and initiatives, designed to bring long term empty homes back into use. Specific long term empty homes which are of strategic priority, will be targeted by the Empty Homes Service, and be offered assistance. Schemes and initiatives currently been offered by Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council include empty property grants and private sector leasing and equity loans. Contact Write: Empty Homes Officer Economy, Culture and Housing Westgate Plaza One PO Box 634 Barnsley S70 9GG Call: Empty Homes Officer 01226 775867 Email: emptyhomes@barnsley.gov.uk Opening Times: Monday to Thursday: 08:45am to 05:00pm Friday: 08:45am to 04:30pm Further Information The Empty Homes Agency is an independent charity. We help people create homes from empty property and campaign for more empty homes to be brought into use, for those in housing need. The Empty Homes web page provided by Communities and Local Government sets out the Governments empty home's policy. It provides guidance for local authorities (responsible for tackling empty properties in their area) and people who want to develop empty properties as an investment opportunity or to live in.