Council bucks trend and CUTS council tax on holiday lets
Pembrokeshire council has decided to reduce its council tax premium on second homes from 200% to 150%, just six months after the higher rate was implemented.
The decision, proposed by Councillor Huw Murphy, passed narrowly with 30 votes to 26 and will take effect from next April. The council also plans to ask the Welsh Government to lower the 182-day rental threshold required for self-catering properties to qualify for non-domestic rates. This move contrasts with the trend in England and Wales, where councils are pushing for higher tax premiums on second homes.
Councillors, including Rhys Jordan and Bethan Price, argued the 200% premium was too hasty and blamed it for a rise in properties for sale and a drop in tourism, with some businesses reporting a 40-60% reduction this season. Local businesses in Tenby welcomed the decision.
