Tameside residents with second homes will soon face doubled council tax bills. This change aims to encourage property owners to utilize their homes more effectively.
Tameside: People with second homes are in for a surprise. Their council tax bills are about to double. This decision comes after a proposal was approved to increase charges for certain homeowners.
If you own an empty home, get ready for full charges too. This applies if your property has been vacant for a long time. As of October 7, 2024, Tameside has 123 homes listed as second homes.
The increase follows a new law that lets councils charge more in specific cases. An empty home is one that’s unfurnished and hasn’t been lived in for a while. A second home is furnished but lacks a permanent resident.
The new rules kick in for the 2025/26 financial year. A spokesperson from Tameside Council mentioned the area faces housing challenges. They’re working on affordable housing and addressing homelessness.
With over 100 second homes in Tameside, the council hopes these new charges will motivate owners to use their properties full-time. Starting April 1, 2025, the government will introduce exceptions for owners trying to sell or rent their homes.
These changes aim to enhance Tameside’s housing situation and align with Greater Manchester’s Housing Strategy. The Local Government Association emphasizes the urgent need for affordable housing nationwide.
They believe charging a premium on long-term empty and second homes can help bring these properties back into use. However, they also stress that council tax alone won’t solve the long-term challenges local services face.
