Purpose

to approve in principle the implementation of
premiums in respect of second homes from 1 April 2025

Content

The purpose of the report was to consider the
proposals to introduce a Council Tax Premium on second homes and
apply a premium to long term empty properties after one year.
 
Councillor Evemy introduced the report and
outlined the recommendations to Full Council. 
 
Cabinet made various comments around the
proposals to support affordable housing and the application of the
premium.
 
Councillor Evemy proposed the recommendations
and Councillor Layton seconded.
 
That Cabinet AGREED to recommend to Full
Council to:

1.   
Agree from 01 April 2024 to levy the maximum level of premium for
Empty Homes as set out in the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act
2023:
i) Premium of 100%
for dwellings which are unoccupied and substantially
unfurnished (Empty
Homes Premium) after 1 year up to 5 years of becoming
empty;
ii) Premium of 200%
for dwellings which are unoccupied and substantially
unfurnished (Empty
Homes Premium) between 5 years and 10 years;
iii) Premium of
300% for dwellings which are unoccupied and substantially
unfurnished (Empty
Homes Premium) for 10 years or more.
Page 3

2.   
Agree in principle from 01 April 2025 to the implementation of a
premium (Second Homes Premium) of 100% for dwellings that are no
one’s sole or main residence and which are substantially
furnished subject to the conditions at paragraph 3.7

3.   
Agree to issue the mandatory notice of 12 months to all owners of
second homes that a premium will commence from 1 April 2025;
and,

4.   
Note that where premiums are to be applied, the Council is mindful
of the current consultation by government which recommends
exceptions in certain circumstances outlined within this report.
Subject to the outcome of that consultation, a further report may
be presented to Cabinet and Council prior to the implementation of
the Council's policy on premiums taking into account statute, the
Council's requirements and any guidance given by the Secretary of
State.
 
Voting Record
 
5 For, 0 Against, 0
Abstention, 3 Absent/Did not vote