West Oxfordshire District Council launches new loan scheme to bring empty homes back into use
West Oxfordshire District Council has partnered with Lendology CIC, a not-for-profit social lender, to launch a new Empty Homes Loan Scheme. This initiative is designed to help homeowners bring long-term empty properties back into use, improving neighbourhoods and increasing the local housing supply.
The new Empty Homes Loan Scheme offers homeowners low interest loans to help cover the cost of repairs and improvements needed to make empty properties safe and comfortable to live in again. The scheme is available to owners of properties that have been empty for two years or longer.
Funded by the council and delivered by Lendology CIC, the scheme is designed to make access to finance fair and affordable. Lendology’s people-first approach focuses on the homeowner’s individual circumstances, not just their credit score. Every applicant is assessed on their ability to afford repayments and tailored support is offered throughout the process.
Loans can be used for a wide range of improvements including roof and structural repairs, damp and insulation works, heating and plumbing upgrades, new kitchens and bathrooms, and other essential refurbishments. The aim is to help residents bring properties up to a liveable standard and ensure they are suitable to rent out or move back into.
The loan amounts and repayment terms are flexible, and interest rates are fixed for the life of the loan to provide peace of mind.* All works must be completed by appropriately qualified professionals.
Reducing the number of long-term empty homes supports local neighbourhoods by tackling disrepair, improving street appearance, and increasing the supply of homes across the district. It also helps reduce environmental impact, as refurbishing existing buildings is often more sustainable than building new ones.
Applications are now open.
Councillor Alaric Smith, Executive Member for Finance, said:
“Empty homes can be a wasted resource when so many people need housing. They can also cause frustration for local communities, attracting complaints and sometimes falling into disrepair.“This partnership with Lendology will provide a much-needed financial boost to help owners make essential improvements, ensuring properties can be lived in once again and helping tackle the housing crisis in West Oxfordshire.”
Lendology, which already manages similar schemes with councils across the UK, will handle applications, repayments and customer service.
Emma Lower, CEO of Lendology CIC, said:
“We are delighted to partner with West Oxfordshire District Council on this important scheme. Our ethical, council-funded lending model puts people first, helping residents access the finance they need to bring empty homes back into use safely and responsibly.”
The initiative also supports the Council’s wider priorities of improving housing, supporting communities, and tackling climate change. Renovating empty homes not only helps to increase available housing but also improves energy efficiency, which benefits both the environment and future residents.
Applications for the scheme opened on 1 October 2025. All loans are subject to eligibility and affordability checks, and repayment plans are agreed in advance to suit individual circumstances.
To find out more information, including eligibility and how to apply, visit: https://www.lendology.org.uk/partner/west-oxfordshire-district-council/
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West Oxfordshire District Council Communications Team
Notes to editors
* Representative Example (4% fixed interest rate, Representative 4.2% APR)
Loans are subject to status and are typically protected by a Title Restriction. Borrow £5,000 over 60 months, £92.08 monthly repayments. Total amount repayable = £5,544.96, including £20 fee for registering the Title Restriction against your property at the Land Registry. The £20.00 fee is only payable if a loan is agreed by Lendology and you decide to proceed with a loan. We do not charge interest on the fee. A Title Restriction means that you may not be able to sell your home without our permission unless the loan is fully repaid. Missing payments could affect your credit rating and ability to obtain credit in the future.
About West Oxfordshire District Council:
West Oxfordshire District Council provides services to over 110,000 residents across towns, villages and rural communities. The council is committed to improving housing, supporting sustainable communities, and protecting the local environment.
About Lendology CIC:
Lendology CIC is a not-for-profit, FCA-regulated community interest company working with councils across the UK to deliver responsible home improvement lending. By combining council funds with fair, accessible finance, Lendology helps homeowners make essential home repairs, improve energy efficiency, and create safe, warm and comfortable living spaces. Find out more at lendology.org.uk
Lendology CIC is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (675263).
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