A derelict property that was closed due to unsafe living conditions has been transformed into affordable housing for single tenants.

East Anglian Daily Times: A former takeaway shop on London Road South in Pakefield has been transformed into affordable housing. Picture: Waveney District CouncilA former takeaway shop on London Road South in Pakefield has been transformed into affordable housing. Picture: Waveney District Council (Image: Archant)

Months of renovation work at 560 London Road South, in Pakefield, has now been completed and the converted building was officially opened on Wednesday, September 19.

Having previously been occupied as an unauthorised multiple-use dwelling and takeaway business, the three storey property was closed due to substandard conditions. Waveney District Council purchased the property and, in 2017, began works to bring the building back into use.

It becomes the first council-owned 'house of multiple occupancy' (HMO) in East Suffolk, meeting local need for quality accommodation for single people.

'Following its closure, this property had become quite an eyesore which was detrimental to the local area,' said Chris Punt, Waveney's cabinet member for housing. 'The council felt it was appropriate to repurpose the building to provide affordable housing for local people.'

'Many young single people struggle to afford self-contained accommodation, so these new rooms will help to address that need.'

The scheme will house 6 tenants in private rooms with individual kitchens located within their rooms, with shared bathroom facilities and amenities. The ground floor accommodation is suitable for those with low mobility.

Management of the property will be overseen by the council in partnership with Solo Housing, who specialise in supporting single people to independence.

• New legislation comes into effect on October 1, requiring landlords of properties with five or more occupiers, who are not related, to be licensed. Landlords are urged to submit licensing applications before October 1.

• For more information, contact the council's private sector housing team on 01394 444506 or visit WDC's website.