It has been confirmed that the upcoming Queen’s Speech will contain plans for an Act of Parliament giving new powers for local authorities in England, like Cornwall Council to be able to double council tax on unused second homes to boost funding for local services.
Welcoming the news was Truro and Falmouth’s Member of Parliament Cherilyn Mackrory. She said:
“This is something I have long-campaigned for, both during my time as MP for Truro and Falmouth but also when I was a Cornwall Councillor. Having been an elected representative at both levels of government I fully understand how beneficial it would be for local authorities like Cornwall Council to be able to have these powers, which will generate income that can then be put direct into running and improving local services. This is an argument I have been making, along with my Cornish MP colleagues, for some time.”
“The powers announced in the Queen’s Speech will give councils the ability to levy a premium of up to 100% on council tax bills for second homes – which are furnished but not occupied as a sole or main residence – empowering them to determine how best to raise additional revenue for their communities.”
“It has also been confirmed that another big issue that we have in Cornwall, empty homes, will be addressed, as homes left empty could also see their standard council tax rate doubled sooner – after 12 months rather than two years – in a move that will discourage owners from leaving properties vacant for a long time, while injecting money back into local areas.”
“In addition to having the power to apply greater premiums at a level of their choice, Local Authorities will enjoy flexibility on how to spend the funds raised and can decide to prioritise keeping council tax bills low for local households. This will also help deliver the infrastructure that communities really need, including genuinely affordable housing, social care and children’s services.”
“Along with the announcement of the closure of the holiday let business rates loophole earlier this year, I am pleased to see this Government once again listening to concerns raised from Cornwall and committing to take action. The growing numbers of empty homes, many of them second homes, across Cornwall, are a legitimate concern when it comes to keeping our communities vibrant all year round and I hope you will agree with me that this is good news for us all.”