Decision details

The Director of Finance and Digital Services provided Cabinet with the results of the public consultation, which it agreed to initiate in respect of the introduction of a Council Tax Premium on long term empty properties and second homes in the County Borough.

The Director spoke of the Cabinet meeting on 17^th October 2022, whereby the Cabinet considered and agreed a new Empty Homes Strategy for 2022-2025 and agreed to undertake a consultation on the proposal to introduce a Council Tax Premium on Long Term Empty Properties. It was proposed that the premium for long term empty properties would be introduced and effective from 1^st April 2023, while the premium for second homes would be effective from 1^st April 2024 (in line with the requirements of the Act). The Council would write to each homeowner, once a decision is made, to advise them of the forthcoming changes, thereby providing as much advance notice as possible.

The Director drew Cabinet’s attention to Appendix 1 of the report, which detailed the responses to the consultation exercise that took place between 24^th October and 21^st November 2022.

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services stated that the Council has discretionary powers to charge higher amounts in relation to council tax for long-term empty dwellings and second homes with a view to bringing empty properties back into use, increasing the supply of affordable housing and enhancing the sustainability of local communities. The Cabinet Member added that empty properties have a detrimental impact on communities and was in support of moving the original proposal which had been consulted upon.

The Leader spoke in support of the original proposal and noted that although most owners were against the proposals, the majority of the public were in support as the empty properties were considered to be a blight on communities. The Leader noted that the owners would have two years to renovate or sell the property before the significant increase.

The Leader spoke of the Empty Property Grant which had been successful and advised that there would be an all-Wales programme for empty properties funded by the Welsh Government in the New Year.

The Cabinet RESOLVED:

1. To note the consultation feedback as attached at Appendix 1 of the report; 2. Having considered the consultation feedback, to proceed with the introduction of a premium as set out in the original proposal;

3. In line with the above to recommend the proposed way forward to Full Council; and

4. Subject to the above, to authorise the Director of Finance and Digital Services to put in place the necessary implementation arrangements.