Despite significant opposition from the public, a council has pushed forward with plans to increase council tax by an additional 100% for second homes and long-term empty properties. The decision comes after a consultation conducted by Neath Port Talbot council, where a notable 44% of respondents expressed strong disagreement with the proposed hike. Despite this feedback, the council has decided to proceed with the initiative, sparking concerns and debates within the community.
The move to impose such a substantial tax increase on second homes and vacant properties reflects the council’s efforts to address housing issues and stimulate property occupancy. While the decision has faced backlash, particularly from those directly affected by the tax hike, proponents argue that it serves as a measure to encourage homeowners to either occupy or rent out their properties, thereby addressing housing shortages and revitalizing local communities.
Owners of second homes or properties left vacant for extended periods will now face a hefty 200% increase in their council tax bill, doubling the initial 100% hike imposed by the local authority in 2020. This decision, despite facing significant opposition from the public, marks a substantial policy shift for Neath Port Talbot council. The move aims to address concerns surrounding housing shortages and encourage the more efficient utilization of residential properties within the area.
According to a report submitted to the council, this additional charge aims to generate extra revenue through council tax collection, potentially amounting to approximately £2,389,858.21. This estimation considers the full-year impact of the 100% premium, with both increments set to take effect in April 2025, based on the current 98% collection rate at average Band D council tax rates. The council’s decision reflects a broader trend among local authorities seeking innovative approaches to address housing challenges and boost revenue streams while ensuring fair and equitable tax policies.
During a recent council meeting, councillor Simon Knoyle voiced concerns regarding the detrimental impact of long-term empty properties on local communities. He stressed the importance of implementing measures, such as the introduction of a council tax premium, to encourage property owners to address this issue and put vacant properties back into productive use. Knoyle’s remarks underscored the broader efforts aimed at revitalizing neighborhoods and ensuring that available housing stock meets the needs of residents.
The proposed council tax premium seeks to create a financial incentive for homeowners to take action on their long-term vacant properties. Under this initiative, newly acquired empty properties would be granted a six-month grace period before the additional tax is imposed, allowing owners time to address the situation. This approach aligns with the Welsh Government’s legislative framework, which empowers local authorities to levy premiums of up to 300% on long-term empty properties and certain second homes, demonstrating a concerted effort to tackle housing challenges and promote responsible property management practices.
A long-term empty dwelling, as per the council’s definition, is a property that has remained unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for a minimum of one year. On the other hand, a second home is identified as a dwelling that does not serve as an individual’s primary residence and is substantially furnished. Neath Port Talbot council, citing this criterion, indicates that they have identified a total of 1,153 long-term empty homes alongside 555 properties classified as second homes, all subject to the 100% charge.
During a council meeting, Councillor Simon Knoyle emphasized the challenges posed by long-term empty properties within communities, stating, “As members, we have all experienced the problems caused by long-term empty properties in our communities. The introduction of a council tax premium should incentivize homeowners to return their properties to good use.” Knoyle’s remarks underscore the council’s objective of encouraging property owners to address the issue of long-term vacancy and contribute positively to the local housing market.
Additionally, any long-term empty property acquired by a new owner would be granted a six-month grace period before the implementation of the additional tax. This provision aims to provide property owners with a reasonable timeframe to undertake necessary measures to bring the property back into occupancy or productive use. It reflects the council’s consideration for property owners while maintaining its commitment to addressing the challenges associated with long-term vacant properties and second homes in the area.
