In Wales, it's estimated that up to 120,000 homes, or one in 12, may be empty. These homes fall into two categories: "truly vacant" with no signs of occupancy and second homes, accounting for about 15%.
This data comes from a mix of sources, including the 2021 Census, revealing that Wales has a higher percentage of vacant homes (7%) than most English regions, second only to London. There's also a higher proportion of second homes with no usual residents (1.2%) compared to England (0.6%).
Notably, certain areas in Wales have a particularly high number of unoccupied homes, with Gwynedd leading at 19.2%, followed by Ceredigion (15.9%), Denbighshire (15.9%), Anglesey (14.9%), and Pembrokeshire (13.9%).
To address this issue, the Welsh government introduced measures like the £50 million National Empty Homes Grant scheme, which funds refurbishments of vacant properties for occupancy. They've also raised council tax premiums on second homes and offered affordable housing solutions.
Housing advocates emphasize the importance of utilizing these empty properties to combat homelessness and provide affordable housing in Wales, benefiting local communities and the environment.