Purpose

 An unoccupied and unfurnished premium of 50% was introduced in April 2019 and this was subsequently increased to 100% with effect from April 2023. Despite this increase the number of long term unoccupied premiums has not reduced significantly and Cabinet is asked to review the existing scheme and consider whether introducing an incremental premium scheme is appropriate which charges higher premiums dependent on the length of time the property has been unoccupied and unfurnished.

Decision

RESOLVED: that

Council be recommended to agree that, with effect from 1st April 2024, the premium charge of 100% on long-term empty dwellings is increased to 200% for dwellings that have been unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for more than 24 months, and to 300% for dwellings that have been unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for more than 36 months.