Government must make it easier for councils to take control of empty properties in their local authorities. This should include clarifying councils’ existing powers, such as Empty Dwelling Management Orders and Compulsory Purchase Orders; making the existing powers less risky by amending the conditions that must apply for councils to take and give up control of empty homes; or providing new options such as an extension of The Dormant Assets Scheme to long-term empty residential properties. (Recommendation, Paragraph 76) Affordable housing