WARRINGTON Borough Council is seeking views of residents on proposed changes to the levels of council tax for empty properties.
In April 2013, the government allowed councils to change the level of council tax discount for certain empty properties and second homes. The council implemented some of these changes and is now considering further amendments.
The consultation is around two areas:
1. Current position: If a property becomes empty and unfurnished, there is no council tax charge for a maximum of three months.
New proposal: To reduce that time to a maximum of one month.
2.Current position: Properties that are empty and unfurnished properties for less than 2 years get a 25% council tax discount after three months.
New proposal: There is zero council tax discount after one month.
Cllr Russ Bowden, executive board member for corporate finance, said: “We want to encourage home owners to return properties to occupation as quickly as possible.
“The council’s executive board is keen to hear your views on the proposed changes to council tax discounts. Your opinions are important to us and this consultation is a great opportunity to feed into the final proposal.”
Have your say:
•You can access an online survey via: http://www.warrington.gov.uk/info/200352/consultations/1924/consultation_to_review_council_tax_discounts_for_empty_properties_and_second_homes
•Fill in a paper survey found in council receptions, and Contact Warrington
•Email comments to revenues&[email protected]
The consultation closes on Friday, September 18 2015 and the information will be fed into executive board with final decisions expected later on this year.
1 Comment
Typical council consultation document; more questions on whether I am white, black, Pakistani, Gay, Bisexual or trans-gender than on the actual purpose of the document….