Problems hit bid to solve vacancy issue

LEGAL delays and untraceable owners are hampering Gateshead Council's ability to deal with long-term vacant buildings throughout the area, councillors have heard.

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‘The council's housing and communities scrutiny committee have been told the search for owners and legal processes can hold up dealing with vacant private properties, including commercial and residential, for years.

Regular issues faced by council officers include absentee landlords, owners residing abroad and probate problems.