Derby City Council has launched a nine-week public consultation yesterday (Wednesday 9 October) on proposed changes to Council Tax for empty homes and second homes in the city. The changes are in line with the new guidance rules introduced by the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023.
The proposed changes will include a 100% Council Tax premium on properties that have been unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for at least one year, effective from April 2025; and the introduction to a 100% Council Tax premium on second homes, effective from April 2026.
Those measures aim to encourage property owners to live in or sell their empty homes. This will help add more homes to the local housing market and reduce the number of underused properties, making sure more housing is available for residents who need them.
Councillor Shiraz Khan, Cabinet Member for Housing, Property and Regulatory Services, said:
The proposed changes aim to encourage the occupation of vacant homes. These proposals are designed to align with the Council's Socio-Economic Duty by minimising the financial burden on vulnerable and low-income individuals while maximising the potential of vacant housing stock within the city.
The council encourages residents and stakeholders to engage with these proposals as part of its ongoing commitment to transparency and community involvement.
The consultation period will run from Wednesday 9 October 2024 to Friday 13 December 2024. To have your say, visit the Let's Talk Derby website.