West Oxfordshire District Council has asked the Government to assess whether empty Ministry of Defence properties in Long Hanborough could be brought back into use as affordable homes.
The two residences are situated on Marlborough Crescent and Becketts Close.
Andy Graham, the council leader and a councillor, wrote to the Minister for Veterans and People seeking clarity about the future of the unoccupied properties.
He proposed that, should the Ministry of Defence decide to sell them, the homes should be examined for use as social housing or temporary accommodation.
Graham said residents deserve safe, secure homes that they can afford and noted that this prospect is becoming increasingly difficult for many people across West Oxfordshire.
The former occupants reportedly departed in November 2024, with both properties remaining vacant since then.
West Oxfordshire District Council considers that reusing the homes could help reduce local housing pressures while also resolving concerns about their condition and reported anti-social behaviour nearby.
The council has also identified families on its housing waiting list and people requiring temporary accommodation.
Housing demand in the district is substantial.
Average property prices stand at almost ten times average earnings and are approximately £80,000 above the national figure.
An estimated 2,800-plus households are regarded as needing affordable housing, while more than 1,800 are on the council’s waiting list.
Although the overall number of homes in West Oxfordshire has almost doubled during the past 40 years, the availability of affordable rented accommodation has fallen.
Increasing the supply of socially rented housing remains a council priority, with secure homes offered below market-level rents viewed as an important part of that objective.
In his correspondence, Graham asked whether the Ministry of Defence intends to renovate the residences or demolish them as part of the regeneration of the surrounding area.
He also sought information concerning delivery schedules, subsequent uses and a meeting with ministry officials.
Government responsibility for deciding the properties’ future remains in place.
The council is seeking an approach that would provide certainty for Long Hanborough while meeting housing requirements in the district.
In September, councillors unanimously backed a motion from councillor Roger Faulkner, seconded by councillor Toby Morris, which called for the Ministry of Defence to provide greater clarity about what is intended for the homes.