Agenda item

Councillor Jo Hale reiterated her prejudicial interest and left the meeting for this item.

The Cabinet Member for Finance, Performance and Social Justice introduced the proposals to introduce a council tax premium on second homes and long term empty properties as contained within the circulated report.

It was reiterated that robust scrutiny had taken place in the Cabinet Scrutiny Committee where this item had been considered, and members requested that the observations around simplifying the exemptions that are offered be taken on board by officers and the Cabinet.

It was agreed that the proposal should have a positive impact on the issues surrounding vacant properties and the pressures on the Council’s housing services.

RESOLVED:        That the introduction of a Council Tax Premium of 100% on long term empty dwellings and second homes from 1^st April 2025 be APPROVED.

                              That no premium being charged in the following cases be APPROVED:

1.    Where an empty property can only be accessed through a business premises and does not have a separate entrance. This category will not apply if the building is altered to remove an existing separate entrance.

2.    Where a premium would be payable on a long term empty property that is sold, the new owner will not be charged a premium for up to 6 months from the date of the sale while major building works is being carried out.