OWNERS of furnished second homes in the district will see their council tax double.
From April 2025, councils in England had new powers to charge up to 100 per cent additional council tax on second homes. These are properties that are substantially furnished but not anyone’s main residence.
SDC is considering applying the maximum premium of 100 per cent, which would mean second homes pay double the standard council tax rate. Currently, second homes in the district pay the full council tax without any discounts.
A six-week consultation on the proposal has begun.
Following the consultation, SDC will make the decision on whether to implement the council tax premium in February 2026. If approved the premium would take effect from April 1 2027. To provide the required notice owners of second homes would be notified by March 31 2026.
The proposal aims to address housing availability and affordability in the district, where average house prices remain significantly higher than the regional average (£382,000 compared to £257,000 in the West Midlands). By increasing the cost of owning a second home, SDC hopes to encourage more properties back into the local housing market.
Income generated from the premium would support the council’s budget, including initiatives to deliver affordable housing in rural areas and reduce reliance on temporary accommodation.
SDC’s housing spokesperson Coun Liz Coles said: “The Government has given councils new powers to apply a premium on second homes, and we are considering how this could work locally.
“Second homes can reduce the availability of housing for local people, and this premium could provide a valuable source of income to fund essential services and affordable housing projects. The views we receive through this consultation are essential in shaping this decision and deciding the right approach for the district.”
The consultation is open now until Monday February 2, and responses will help shape the final decision.
Visit online1.snapsurveys.com/Interview/5fae427d-d6b1-4f39-b26b-a79f35236462 to take part.
