Scale of 'empty homes' in one county could fill valley town

THE number of empty properties in Conwy could fill a town the size of Llanrwst, warned concerned councillors.

- By RICHARD EVANS Local Democracy Reporter

The county council's cabinet voted on Tuesday to continue charging council tax premiums on second homes and long-term empty properties in the hope of boosting housing availability in the county.

It is anticipated that the premiums will generate an additional net income of £5.519m in 2025/26 for the cash-strapped council. At the Coed Pella meeting, cabinet member for finance and strategic planning Cllr Chris Cater presented the report, proposing councillors backed continuing the premiums.

Llanrwst’s Plaid Cymry councillor Aaron Wynne seconded his proposal. “I agree with the recommendations that have come through the task force,” said Cllr Wynne.