Local authorities could double council tax on empty and second homes

The Scottish Government has announced plans to allow councils to double the council tax paid on empty and second homes to address housing challenges in Scotland – particularly in rural and island communities.

There are currently 2,424 empty and second homes in North Ayrshire, a disproportionate number of them on Arran, while islanders are in temporary accommodation and on housing waiting lists.

Across Scotland, there are 42,865 long-term empty homes and 24,287 second homes, with 1,527 empty houses in North Ayrshire alone.

The proposals would bring second homes into line with long-term empty homes from next year.

Arran MSP Kenneth Gibson said: “Against a backdrop of unaffordable house prices in much of Arran, this will take substantial steps in delivering on the SNP Government’s housing commitments and building affordable homes whilst recognising that second empty homes can be part of the solution, rather than simply being seen as a problem for communities.

“Money raised could be used to buy and refurbish empty homes for islanders, while discouraging the purchase of second homes, reducing upward pressure on prices.”

Ross Greer, Scottish Green MSP for North Ayrshire, also welcomed the plans. He said: “Homes are for living in, not for hoarding. Everyone should have access to good quality and affordable housing.

“Yet in North Ayrshire there are 1,527 perfectly good houses sitting empty for most of the year. This is at the same time as families are stuck on housing waiting lists and young people are being forced to leave the community they have grown up in as a result of a lack

Arran MSP Kenneth Gibson says the money raised from increased council tax could be used to buy and refurbish empty homes for islanders. of affordable homes. These Council Tax plans sit alongside other crucial measures that we have already delivered, like the increased tax on the initial purchase of second and holiday homes. Not only will they raise vital funds to support public services during the cost-of-living crisis, they will collectively act as a disincentive on second home ownership and free up more homes in North Ayrshire for those who really need them.

“With this kind of bold action, we can tackle the broken housing market, make it easier for younger people in particular to buy their first home and help communities like North Ayrshire to thrive.”