Holiday let owners in Powys are up in arms over a new council tax change that could see them shelling out millions! In a drama that’s got the county buzzing, 270 self-catering units are challenging the switch from business rates to a whopping 75% council tax premium. Powys council is eyeing an extra £2.5 million to boost its coffers, but the collection is snagged while the Valuation Office Agency mulls over an appeal.
This taxation twist stems from Welsh Government rules, requiring holiday lets to be rented for at least 182 days a year to qualify for business rates instead of council tax. Cue a fiery council meeting where Councillor Pete Lewington raised questions about the financial ripple effects if the appeal swings in favour of the let owners.
Jane Thomas, Powys council’s director of corporate services, pointed out that some businesses have faced eye-watering tax bills backdated to 2023. As the valuation office gets up to speed on assessments, the council is keeping it all under review. Meanwhile, holiday property owners are being offered payment plan options amid ongoing discussions.
With council tax collection slightly down this year, the council is holding its breath on whether they’ll end up counting their chickens before they hatch. Stay tuned as this financial tug of war unfolds! 🏘️💰#HolidayLets #PowysTaxBattle