Public invited to have say on council tax premiums for second homes and empty properties in Conwy

Conwy County Borough Council is carrying out a consultation on council tax premiums to be levied on second homes and long-term empty homes for 2022/23.

The premium is designed to encourage owners to bring empty properties into use and support the increase of affordable housing for purchase or let in local communities.

At a meeting in December 2020, councillors resolved to increase the level of premium on second homes and long-term empty homes to 50% from 1st April 2022, subject to a review during 2021/2022.

Now, as part of the research that the council is doing, it wants to hear from second and long term empty property owners, as well as those who don’t own such properties, on what the premium should be.

The consultation also gives the opportunity for people to give their opinion on what effect the premium has on tourism, the Welsh language and affordable housing.

Cllr Brian Cossey, Cabinet Member for Finance, Revenue and Benefits, said: “Owners of second homes and long term empty properties have been written to and asked to take part.

“The consultation is open to everyone to complete, and we’re keen to get the views of as many people as possible.”

The results of the consultation and other research will be taken into account by councillors when they consider the final decision about what premium to apply for next year.

The consultation closes on 20 August 2021 and is available on the council’s website.