Argyll and Bute residents are being invited to help shape future council tax policy on second homes and long term empty properties as the council continues its efforts to tackle the area’s housing emergency.

The consultation follows the introduction of a 100 per cent Council Tax premium on second homes in 2024, a measure brought in as part of a wider strategy to increase the availability of homes for local residents.

According to the council, the first year of the policy saw a reduction in the number of recorded second homes and evidence that some empty properties had been brought back into residential use.

While acknowledging that changes in property use can be influenced by a range of factors, the council says the early signs point towards a positive direction of travel.

The introduction of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2026 has now given councils greater flexibility when setting Council Tax premiums in future, prompting Argyll and Bute Council to seek public views before considering its next steps.

Rather than asking people to comment on a specific level of Council Tax, the consultation focuses on the principles that should guide any future approach.

Residents are being asked for their views on issues including fairness, effectiveness, local circumstances and how Council Tax premiums could contribute to wider housing and community objectives.

The findings will be analysed before being presented to councillors for consideration.

Councillor Ross Moreland, the council’s Policy Lead for Finance and Commercial Services, said:

“Everyone wants somewhere to call home.

“And Argyll and Bute needs people to live, work and contribute to day-to-day life here as well as to the longer term future of the area.

“It’s important therefore that we consider all options for developing the housing stock Argyll and Bute needs.

“I would encourage everyone to find out more and give their views.”

The consultation is open until 14 September and forms part of the council’s continuing work to address housing pressures across Argyll and Bute while ensuring local communities have the opportunity to help shape future policy.

To take part visit: www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/consultation/council-tax-premiums