Councils in England are set to get stronger powers to bring long-empty homes back into use. Proposed reforms would cut the qualifying vacancy period from two years to six months.

According to reports, the changes apply to Empty Dwelling Management Orders. Councils would take over management of empty homes, not ownership, and work with owners to return them to use.

The move aims to tackle the housing crisis by unlocking thousands of homes left vacant for years. Housing campaigners welcomed the proposal as a practical step.

The government said the reforms would give councils the tools they need. Further details of the legislation are expected in the coming months.

Thousands of homes sit empty across England despite the housing shortage. The reforms would let councils step in far sooner, while owners could still reclaim properties under the proposals. Ministers say the change will unlock thousands of homes for families on waiting lists.