Canterbury empty home council tax rise proposed

A council tax increase would the number of occupied properties, Canterbury City Council said

A Kent council is considering a 150% increase in council tax for homes left empty and unfurnished for two years.

Canterbury City Council said the increase would apply to all homes apart from annexes and properties left empty by serving members of the armed forces.

Councillor Joe Howes, cabinet member for housing, said: "Homes left empty for the long term are bad news for the local neighbourhood and the economy."

A public consultation on the plans has begun.