Void dwellings—a ‘headline’ indicator? - Tate - 2002 - Sustainable Development - Wiley Online Library

Void dwellings—a ‘headline’ indicator? - Tate - 2002 - Sustainable Development - Wiley Online Library: "Void dwellings—a ‘headline’ indicator?"

This paper explores a specific theme within the context of the use of ‘headline’ indicators by the UK strategy on sustainable development. It argues that the indicator on housing (unfit dwellings) might appropriately be replaced by a measure relating to void (empty) dwellings. Following an interpretation of what constitutes a ‘headline’ indicator, the paper explores the role of such an indicator in assessing the sustainability of the housing system in terms of the respective roles played by both unfit and void dwellings. The argument is then expanded through an examination of current issues and initiatives in relation to void dwellings, including abandonment in the core areas of some cities and falling demand in the social housing sector generally. The implications for the environment of poor management of the housing stock are stressed, as are the linkages between man-made and natural systems. Failure to address the issues raised could result in a ‘lose–lose’ situation with unsustainable outcomes for both urban and rural environments. The void dwelling measure is superior to that of unfits on a range of counts, but particularly if this wider context is taken into consideration. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. and ERP Environment.