Council Tax discounts could be axed LISA MEAKIN
STOCKPORT town hall chiefs are set to axe Council Tax discounts on empty homes and properties under renovation.
That could mean an extra £1m for the council, which is drawing up plans to slash £16m from its budget.
If the proposals are approved Stockport will follow in the footsteps of Bolton and Tameside councils.
Currently, if a property is unfurnished an owner can claim 100 per cent council tax for two months.
If a property is being developed, a 75pc discount is available.
A council report reads: “In addition to the loss of revenue the administration of the empty property discount scheme is burdensome, including the need for inspection visits on some accounts to verify claims made.
“Plus reviewing the empty property discount has the potential to generate additional revenue with minimum impact on the most vulnerable as it relates to houses which are vacant.”
However, the 100pc council tax discount affforded to military personnel or those who have a property but are living in a care home will remain.
Coun Elise Wilson presented the report to cabinet members last Tuesday. She said: “Of the £1.2m that could be raised it is proposed to use it to create a larger council tax discretionary fund.
“The money will support the most vulnerable families with children who don’t currently receive 100pc council tax discount.”
Council chief Alex Ganotis welcomed the report and said the purpose of the changes was about ‘fairness’ and resourcing additional cash.
“It is also about providing more support for our most vulnerable families in terms of council tax relief – plus there are a number of good things that can be achieved with this review,” he added.
The council will now consult with the public on the proposals.