Wiltshire Council is planning to introduce major changes to its council tax charges, including a 100% premium on second homes and higher rates for long-term empty properties.
The proposals were approved by the council’s Cabinet on Monday 9 December and will now go before Full Council for a final decision.
Under the plans, from Wednesday 1 April 2027, properties classed as second homes – those that are furnished but not used as anyone’s main residence – will face a 100% council tax premium. Around 1,300 homes in Wiltshire currently fall under this category.
If approved, the change could generate an estimated £1.5 million in extra income for the council. Officials also expect an increase in administration as property owners challenge the classification of their homes.
Cabinet members also agreed to recommend changes to council tax charges for long-term empty homes, with a higher premium to come into effect from Wednesday 1 April 2026.
The new rates would see a:
– 100% premium on homes empty for up to five years
– 200% premium on homes empty for five to ten years
– 300% premium on homes empty for more than ten years
The aim is to encourage owners to bring empty homes back into use while generating extra income for local services. The council estimates the measure could raise around £750,000 per year, though the exact figure will depend on how property owners respond.
Cllr Gavin Grant, Cabinet Member for Finance, said: “We believe these council tax proposals are the right approach to take in being fair and proportionate as well as delivering extra much needed revenue to the council to help sustain important and much needed services.
“We also want to encourage empty properties back into use to reduce housing shortages and provide new homes for those that need them. These changes align us with national best practice.”
If approved by Full Council, the new charges will be applied through the existing council tax billing system, with affected property owners receiving updated annual bills.
Full details of the proposals can be found on Wiltshire Council’s website at www.wiltshire.gov.uk
under Agenda and decisions – Democratic Services.
