The SNP Government has announced plans to allow councils to double the council tax paid on empty and second homes to address challenges around housing in Scotland – particularly in rural and island communities.
There are currently 2,424 empty and second homes in North Ayrshire, while people are in temporary accommodation and on longer housing waiting lists.
Across Scotland, there are 42,865 long term empty homes and a further 24,287 second homes.
The proposals would bring second homes into line with long-term empty homes from next year.
Against a backdrop of unaffordable house prices in much of Arran, this will take substantial steps in delivering on the SNP Government’s housing commitments and creating affordable homes whilst recognising that empty homes can be part of solutions, rather than simply being seen as problems for communities.
