Issue - meetings

Recommendations

The Executive is asked to recommend to full Council that implementation of the following be approved:

(a)   The application of the current premium of 100% for all dwellings which are unoccupied and substantially unfurnished (empty dwellings) from a period of one year with effect from 1st April 2024;

(b)   The application of a premium of 100% for all dwellings which are unoccupied but substantially furnished (second homes) with effect from 1st April 2025; and

(c)   That the Section 151 Officer is given delegated powers to implement the policy in line with the Council’s requirements and any guidance given by the Secretary of State or regulation

Considered – A report of the Corporate Director, Resources confirming the Council’s policy on the levying of empty homes and second homes council tax premiums.

Councillor Gareth Dadd introduced the report and noted the substantial number of second homes across the county.  He confirmed that other local Authorities were following our Council’s lead.  He also drew attention to the number of long term empty properties and the additional income that could be generated through implementation of the proposals.

Councillor Yvonne Peacock welcome the proposal recognising the significant number of second homes throughout the Dales and in response to her query around Government set exemptions, it was noted those exemptions had yet to be confirmed.

Other Councillors also welcomed the proposals.  In particular. Councillor Simon Myers hoped it would help to ease the pressure on housing waiting lists.  He also expressed interest in the government’s awaited changes to planning regulations recognising they too would benefit the county’s current position.

Councillor Eric Broadbent confirmed he had met with a number of second home owners who were unhappy with the proposals and expressed concern it may lead to an increase in Airbnbs.

Councillor Gareth Dadd reassured members that where similar proposals had been implemented in other areas of high density, it had only led to a 10% reduction in the number of second homes.  He also confirmed the income yield would be used to provide housing.   

Resolved – That the following be recommended to full Council for approval:

(a)    The application of the current premium of 100% for all dwellings which are unoccupied and substantially unfurnished (empty dwellings) from a period of one year with effect from 1st April 2024;

(b)    The application of a premium of 100% for all dwellings which are unoccupied but substantially furnished (second homes) with effect from 1st April 2025; and

(c)     The Section 151 Officer be given delegated powers to implement the policy in line with the Council’s requirements and any guidance given by the Secretary of State or regulation