Mark Whitehead 03 October 2016

Council could double tax on empty homes

Homes left empty long-term in Newport would be taxed at double the normal rate under plans being considered by the city council.

It says there are more than 1,100 homes in the area which have been left unoccupied for more than 12 months.

Newport City Council says bringing them back into use could improve the quality of life in those communities while also increasing the availability of affordable homes.

Residents are being consulted over the plan to charge double the normal council tax on properties that have been unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for a continuous period of at least two years.

Other councils in Wales have already taken similar measures after new powers were introduced by the Welsh Government in March – Anglesey has agreed a 25% levy while Pembrokeshire is planning to charge 50% extra from April next year.

The consultation will continue until the end of this month.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

School Effectiveness Partner

Essex County Council
£62725.0000 - £73793.0000 per annum
School Effectiveness PartnerPermanent, Full Time£62,725 to £73,793 per annum Location
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Team Manager - Family Help (Battersea)

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
Up to £62,451 per annum
Team Manager - Family Help ServiceU... Wandsworth, London
Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth

Finance Officer - Banking, Controls & Reconciliation

Essex County Council
£25081.00 - £27653.00 per annum + + 26 Days Leave & Local Gov Pension
Finance Officer - Banking, Controls & ReconciliationFixed Term, Full Time£25,081 to £27,653 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Children's Social Worker - Family Help Service (Fixed Term, Roehampton)

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
Up to £52,767 per annum (subject to experience)