RESIDENTS in the district who fail to pay their council tax will not escape justice.
That is the clear message from Stratford District Council after securing a bankruptcy order following persistent non-payment of council tax.
It followed repeated failures to pay council tax by a resident despite numerous reminders and legal notices.
Payments on the account ceased after March 2021, following a history of compliance. Despite reminder notices and a court summons being issued, no payments were made. Initial correspondence was returned, but further documents were hand-delivered to ensure receipt.
During the recovery process, SDC received multiple letters from the resident but no payment. Enforcement agents were instructed in line with legislation, but when the account was returned unpaid, SDC commenced bankruptcy proceedings.
The bankruptcy order was granted in February this year, and recovery is ongoing for the sum of just over £5,700. Bankruptcy carries serious implications, including being recorded on the individual’s credit file.
Earlier this year, a separate contested bankruptcy case against another resident, also resulted in a ruling in the SDC’s favour for just over £6,500.
SDC housing spokeswoman Coun Liz Coles said: “As a district council, we are committed to supporting residents who are experiencing financial difficulties and will always seek to agree fair payment arrangements wherever possible. Our support is there for those who genuinely need it.
“However, when individuals deliberately refuse or neglect to pay, we will take action to recover public funds. Council tax is essential for funding vital local services, and it is only fair that everyone contributes. Attempts to avoid payment using misleading arguments can ultimately affect our ability to deliver the services residents rely on.”
