Naomi Larsson 26 August 2021

Welsh Government looks at holiday home reforms

Holiday home owners in Wales could be charged the full amount of business rates amid claims people are being priced out of their local area.

Currently, all occupied small business properties below a specified rateable value, including self-catering units, are eligible for small business rates relief.

Earlier this month, property agent Colliers found there were 73,000 holiday let properties in England and Wales eligible for the business rates discount and they would pay £110m if they were liable for council tax.

The Welsh Government, which has floated a number of ideas in a consultation, hopes additional income from local taxes can be used to support public services or the supply of affordable housing.

Welsh government minister Julie James said: ‘We recognise the impact that higher numbers of second homes and self-catered holiday lets can have on local housing and rental markets and on the sustainability of local communities.’

#Business rates #Council tax #Housing #Consultation #Finance #Business #Wales

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