New figures from the Empty Homes Agency show that between 2007 and 2008 the number increased from 80,691 to 82,327, despite falling the previous year. Soaring repossessions and a glut of new-build flats have been blamed for an increase in the number of vacant properties in the capital.
Darren Johnson said:
"The number of London homes left empty is rising. With a record low in home buying and an increase in repossessions we are likely to see more and more empty properties down every street. The Mayor has got to get to grips with this before it gets out of control."
"In addition to delivering on his promise to fully audit London’s abandoned and derelict empty homes, working to remove council tax discounts on long term empty homes, and investing £60m to bring empty homes back into use, the Mayor should also work with councils and the government to increase the use and scope of powers allowing local authorities to take possession of the most problematic empty properties."