CAMPAIGNING and community groups are working together this month to highlight the issue of homes being left empty and falling into disrepair while new houses are built nearby.
Friends of the Earth in Wirral is among dozens of groups nationwide calling for empty homes to be brought back into use.
Our picture shows FoE members and local residents campaigning outside a house in Trafalgar Road, Wallasey.
Explained Charles Simpson, Wirral group co-ordinator: "According to the government's Housing Investment Programme data for 1998, there are over 120,000 empty homes in the North West - the highest number in England.
"There are 6,606 empty homes - five per cent of the total - in Wirral alone.
"New houses are still being built on greenfield sites while older properties are left as derelict eyesores. But that isn't the only issue, potential homes are empty while people are sleeping on the streets," added Mr Simpson.
"By bringing these properties back into use we will help regenerate our towns and preserve our open spaces."
Friends of the Earth, 639-1194, are asking anyone with problems concerning properties which have been empty for a long time, or have constructive suggestions, to contact the Empty Homes Agency on 020-7828-6288.
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