A derelict house left unoccupied for several years is set to provide much-needed temporary accommodation.

West View, in Blandford Forum, has undergone extensive renovation works which are nearing completion.

The house will become stable accommodation for people within the Dorset Council area. A council housing representative said the accommodation will be available to local people to 'help them make plans and support their decisions to move on to permanent accommodation.'

Cllr Graham Carr-Jones, Dorset Council portfolio holder for housing, said: “I am delighted that the project to renovate and use West View to provide homes is nearing completion. The project team have taken an abandoned, dilapidated, eye sore and turned it into an invaluable home and asset for Blandford. We can all be proud of what we have created here.

“My thanks also go to the neighbours and residents of Blandford for their patience while this much needed work was carried out. We will all now reap the benefits for years to come.

“By purchasing such long-term empty properties like West View, the council will be giving people a breathing space in much needed accommodation, with the support to move on to more permanent homes, as well as using money in a more sustainable way than high-cost bed and breakfast accommodation.”

Dorset Council took control of the property in 2021 after tracking down the owners of the long-term empty home and secured funding to transform it into six single bedroom units for temporary accommodation.

The final stages of work coincide with Empty Homes Week 2023, which runs from February 27 to March 5. The national event provides an opportunity for Dorset Council, it says, to demonstrate the action being taken to bring wasted empty homes back into use.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Dorset Council pledges to work with registered housing providers, community land trusts and housing partners to deliver suitable and decent housing. There is also a commitment to provide the right housing options including temporary accommodation, care homes, extra care, supported living and affordable homes to buy and rent.”