There’s still time to have your say on Gwynedd Council’s proposal to increase the council tax premium on second homes and long-term empty properties up to 100 per cent.

The council is inviting the public to share their thoughts on the increase. The deadline to comment is on Monday, 1 February.

Since April 2018, Gwynedd Council has set a 50 per cent council tax premium on these properties.

The Welsh Government has given councils the power to raise an additional amount of up to 100 per cent over the standard level of council tax on such properties, and Gwynedd Council is keen to hear the views of residents on whether a higher rate of council tax should be introduced.

Councillor Ioan Thomas, Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance, said: "Recent research has shown that the holiday homes emergency within the county has reached a critical point and that many people in Gwynedd find it near impossible to get a foot on the housing market - both to buy and to rent.

"The reality, at the moment, is that high house prices due to the demand for holiday units and second homes are pushing prices far beyond the reach of local people in many Gwynedd communities.

“Since April 2018, the council has raised an additional 50 per cent of council tax on owners of second homes and empty properties, with this money being earmarked for housing schemes that support people in Gwynedd to have access to suitable homes within their communities.

“We are eager to hear the public’s opinion on the idea to charge 100 per cent premium on second homes and long-term empty houses. The process of taking part is simple and I encourage anyone who wants to have their say to take the opportunity and take part in the consultation by 1 February.”

To take part, visit www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/PremiumConsultation. For a paper copy, call 01766 771000.