Overview

• Councillors rejected a proposal to return the premium to 100% by 21–29 before approving 125% by 26–25.
• Finance officials said a 100% rate would create a £2.8m pressure in 2026–27, while the 25-point cut equates to about £1.4m less income.
• The premium applies to properties without a usual resident unless they are let for at least 182 days in a year.
• A Welsh Government consultation open until November 20 proposes multi-year averaging of lettings and counting up to 14 charity days, with any changes intended from April 1.
• Council data show 13.8% of homes have no usual resident, with several communities above 40%, and local market reports cite increased listings and an 8.9% April drop in asking prices.