OWNERS of furnished second homes in the district will see their council tax double.
This follows national changes enabling councils in England to apply an additional charge of up to 100 per cent on second homes, defined as properties that are substantially furnished but not used as anyone’s sole or main residence.
Stratford district has over 850 second homes, representing more than one per cent of the district’s entire housing stock. Raising the cost of owning a second home is intended to encourage some properties back into the housing market.
A formal consultation on the proposed premium was carried out between December 15 and February 2. In total 589 online responses were received, eight paper questionnaires were submitted, and14 additional responses were received via letter or email.
All 859 second‑home owners were contacted directly and the consultation was shared widely through local press, social media, the Citizens’ Panel, parish and town councils, and the residents’ email newsletter.
Income generated from the premium will 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: “Stratford District Council remains committed to improving the availability and affordability of homes for local residents while ensuring that essential services and housing programmes continue to be sustainably funded.”
All second‑home owners affected by the change received written notification before March 31. Across the summer, the council will also be holding some advice clinics for residents who want to understand in more detail what this means for them and if any exceptions apply to them.
The 100 per cent premium will then be implemented from April 1 2027, in line with statutory requirements to provide one year’s notice before changes take effect.
