A new matchmaking service is being launched across the Forth Valley this week to introduce buyers and sellers of empty properties.

It is hoped the initiative will bring the area's empty homes back into use.

The idea, under the guidance of the Scottish Empty Homes Partnership – which is run by Shelter Scotland and funded by the Scottish Government – is part of a project which will see Falkirk, Stirling and Clackmannanshire Council collaborate with an advisory board to identify, refurbish and rent, or sell, empty homes.

Shelter Scotland has said there are 23,000 long-term private empty homes across Scotland, with 1,420 of them located in Forth Valley. It is hoped the new scheme will therefore help transform many of those back into homes for families and individuals who need them.

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The initiative aims to introduce buyers looking for an investment or renovation opportunity, with those looking to sell empty properties.

Kristen Hubert, Shelter Scotland's Empty Homes co-ordinator, said: "This is a great, low cost way for councils to help potential buyers and sellers identify each other and hopefully find solutions to Scotland’s empty homes problem.

"There are many reasons why a home might be left empty. Owners can have sentimental attachment to it or they don't have the finances, the time or the skills to complete their plans for the property, or they simply can’t find a buyer through conventional routes.

"The Matchmaker Service allows owners to dip their toe in the water of selling their property, reassuring them that there are developers and other interested buyers out there, before taking the next step to sell their property."

The Matchmaker service is being launched in Forth Valley following the success of a similar project in East Lothian, West Lothian, Scottish Borders and Fife.

(JP/CD)