The overall number of empty homes in Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle grew from nearly 3,500 in 2002 to around 4,450 in 2007.

However, as RENEW has been clearing the properties in the worst condition, the number of homes empty for more than six months fell in the same period from nearly 3,000 to around 2,400.

Fifteen per cent of residents in the RENEW area move every year – more than double the rate elsewhere in North Staffordshire.

Areas affected by empty homes and high turnover tend to be those where housing is in poor condition, where there is little choice in terms of housing types and where there is a poor neighbourhood environment.