Liverpool City Council Plans 400 New Homes and 52 Empty Properties Refurbishment

Liverpool City Council is set to take a major step in tackling housing shortages and increasing the supply of high-quality homes across the city.

At its Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, councillors will consider two major proposals that together could deliver more than 400 homes.

Small Sites Programme to Deliver Up to 400 Affordable Homes

The first proposal outlines a comprehensive programme to release small, council-owned plots for housing development. 

An extensive review of council land has identified several vacant or derelict sites across multiple wards, with the potential to provide up to 400 affordable homes over the next two to three years, subject to planning approval.

The Small Sites plan aims to meet a wide range of housing needs, including accommodation for care leavers, residents requiring temporary housing and adults with additional support needs. 

Sites recently regained by the Council, including Ducie Street, Jermyn Street and Rosebery Street in the Liverpool 8 area, are included to help accelerate regeneration and tackle long-standing neglect.

Early engagement with local communities has already begun to shape consultation plans.

52 Long-Term Empty Homes to Be Brought Back into Use

Cabinet will also consider proposals to transfer 52 long-term vacant properties to a qualified housing provider capable of carrying out full refurbishment. 

The homes, which have been empty for several years and require significant investment, are located in areas including Arundel, Dingle, Edge Hill, Everton North, Everton West, Kensington and Fairfield, Princes Park, Toxteth and Yew Tree wards.

Following a public marketing exercise and detailed assessment, Cabinet is set to approve the sale to a preferred bidder, subject to strict conditions. 

Fifteen properties will provide short-term accommodation for households experiencing homelessness or urgent need. 

The remainder will be refurbished for family housing, offered through a mix of owner occupation and private rent.

Cllr Hetty Wood, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: 

“This programme represents a major step forward in delivering the high-quality homes our city needs. 

“By bringing long-neglected properties back into use and unlocking the potential of smaller sites across our neighbourhoods, we are not only increasing housing supply but strengthening communities.

“Every home we create or restore is another family with the security, dignity and stability they deserve, and I’m proud that Liverpool is taking bold, practical action to meet that need.”

Cllr Nick Small, Member for Growth and Economy, said: 

“These properties have stood empty for far too long. 

“Bringing them back into use is vital for our communities and for meeting the growing demand for housing.

“This approach ensures that responsible organisations can invest in these homes, creating safe, high-quality accommodation for families while improving the wider neighbourhoods.”