Folkestone harbour
Folkestone & Hythe District Council has approved the introduction of a new tax on second homes in the area which will be levied on properties that are only ‘occupied periodically’.
It is expected to encourage owners to bring their properties back into use for local residents.
The council had previously backed the introduction of a 100% council tax premium on second homes last February, but the bill was delayed in receiving Royal Assent. Cabinet members have also agreed to introduce a council tax premium on properties left empty for more than a year, which will come into effect on 1 April 2024.
The second homes tax is expected to come into effect from 1 April 2025, subject to the outcome of a government consultation. Those affected by the change, estimated to be just under 1,100, will be notified before that date.