Empty homes in Liverpool could face a 300% council tax increase

The owners of empty houses could be charged significant council tax premiums

Homes in Liverpool left vacant for long periods could be charged up to 300% council tax premiums under new plans.

The city council said it hoped tackling long-term empty properties would ease the housing crisis and bring in extra revenue.

The maximum 300% premium could apply to homes empty for 10 years or more.

"The council is committed to bringing empty properties back into use," a report to go to its cabinet said.

Legislation introduced last year gives councils additional powers, to charge premiums for "empty and substantially unfurnished properties" from April 1, reports the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The cabinet papers said although the number of empty properties in Liverpool had reduced over the last five years, the council would be "maximising the use of the new legislation".

• Liverpool green bin charge could increase - council papers show

• Merseyrail fares to be frozen for six months, mayor says

• Countess of Chester Hospital Trust still 'requires improvement' - CQC

The council will start charging a 100% council tax premium on a property that has been empty for at least a year if the plans are approved

Currently, a property must have been empty for two years.

The report said changes in ownership or tenancy would not affect the level of premium added.

It is estimated that the plans could bring in an extra £330,000 in council tax in the year 2025-26.

Government commissioners, who are currently in charge of finances at the council, said the council's budget plans were "the culmination of some very impressive teamwork" by different departments and councillors.

They said the budget for 2024-25 was "robust", adding: "There are still well documented challenges ahead, but this is what we expect to see at this time."