Empty Wirral buildings are being turned into accommodation to curb vandalism

Oct 28 2009 by Carrie Catterall, Heswall News

EMPTY buildings, including churches, vicarages and listed buildings are being turned into accommodation in a bid to curb vandalism.

Charter House, in Wallasey is the first building to be taken over in Wirral by The Property Guardian Scheme run by Ad Hoc Property Management.

This Liverpool-based company, which has been operating in the area for six months, has also turned 13 other empty and vulnerable buildings in Merseyside into temporary living accommodation.

Ad Hoc is now in talks with owners of listed buildings and churches in Wirral in order to adopt more properties, that would otherwise be open to squatters, thieves and vandals.

Nick Hilton, Regional Manager of Ad Hoc, said: “Guardian occupation helps to keep properties in a lived-in condition while protecting the fabric and aesthetics of the building, which is proving to be a much preferred low-cost and socially responsible method of keeping buildings safe.

“It’s done on a non-tenancy basis so building owners not only save money but also have the peace of mind of knowing that they can get their building back quickly.

“This innovative approach benefits everyone involved.Not only do local people get somewhere cheap and exciting to live but the wider community also benefits.”

Call the Ad Hoc office on 01904 652 594 for more information.