In a bid to combat the growing housing shortfall, South Cambridgeshire District Council has announced that council tax will double on second homes and empty properties starting in 2026. The move is aimed at encouraging property owners to either sell or rent their properties, thus contributing to the resolution of the area’s housing shortage.
South Cambridgeshire is currently grappling with a significant number of empty homes. The district council estimates that around 2,640 properties are vacant, in addition to 360 second homes. This large number of unused properties is seen as a wasted resource, with the potential to ease the current housing crisis by being brought back into use.
Cllr Natalie Warren-Green, the Council’s Lead Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, stated, “Bringing empty homes back into use is more than just a housing solution – it’s a step toward stronger, more vibrant communities.” By turning these properties into homes, the Council aims to reduce the environmental impact, tackle the housing shortage, and promote sustainable, vibrant communities.
The South Cambridgeshire District Council has already made significant strides in addressing the issue. Over the past two years, the Council has successfully brought 28 empty properties back into use, with a similar number expected by the end of the current financial year. The goal is to continue this momentum by encouraging property owners to either sell or lease their vacant homes.
In some cases, property owners may be able to save thousands of pounds in VAT on renovation costs. The UK Government offers a reduced 5% VAT rate on renovations for properties that have been empty for more than two years. Those interested in such savings are urged to contact the Council’s Empty Homes Officer for assistance with paperwork.
The doubling of council tax on second homes and empty properties is part of a broader strategy to ensure that properties in South Cambridgeshire are used efficiently. In addition to increasing tax rates, the Council has taken legal action against owners of severely neglected homes, issuing Community Protection Warnings and Notices. They have also supported owners of long-term empty homes to sell their properties at auction, ensuring that these homes are eventually renovated and put to good use.
This initiative is not only about addressing the housing crisis but also about creating sustainable, thriving communities. By encouraging owners to make use of their properties, South Cambridgeshire aims to foster a more vibrant and accessible housing market.
