PLANS have been announced to bring empty and derelict homes back into public use.

Lewisham Council wants to address the problem of empty properties, to reduce the burden on social housing.

The council says it is currently negotiating to buy six homes.

The properties would be sold on to a housing association or private developer, who would renovate it and bring it back to living standard.

Deputy Mayor Gavin Moore said: "We must take action to bring empty and derelict properties back into use."