Community

Council tax hike triggers surge in Pembrokeshire second homes for sale

Published

3 months ago

September 6, 2024

The number of second homes for sale in Pembrokeshire has surged dramatically following a substantial council tax increase. New figures reveal that in July, there were 135 second homes listed for sale, a significant rise from just 38 in the same month last year, marking an increase of 255%.

This spike comes after Pembrokeshire County Council introduced a 200% council tax premium in April, effectively tripling the bills for second home owners. In response, many property owners have opted to put their homes on the market, with the number of listed second homes in the county rising by 97 in just 12 months. As of 1 July, the total number of second homes registered in the area has dropped slightly from 3,364 in 2023 to 3,271.

The Welsh Government’s recent policy changes have granted local authorities the power to charge up to 300% in council tax premiums on second homes, aiming to make housing more affordable for local residents. These measures have been particularly controversial in coastal and picturesque areas, where holiday homes are prevalent.

Neil Evans, owner of West Wales Properties estate agents, highlighted the significant impact of the council tax premium, especially in towns like St Davids and Newport. “We’re seeing properties come on the market at such a volume that I’ve never seen in 30 years,” he said. Evans noted that second home owners could easily relocate across the Severn Bridge, where such premiums do not apply, adding that the policy has also had a detrimental effect on the local holiday trade.

The issue of second homes has long been contentious in Wales, particularly in areas like Gwynedd, where the local council has been accused of “playing Russian roulette” by imposing a 250% council tax premium on second homes. Earlier this year, Gwynedd went a step further, requiring new second homes to obtain planning consent—a measure that will come into effect on 1 September.

Cyngor Gwynedd has justified these policies by citing the “huge housing crisis” in the area, with many young people supporting the move as they find themselves priced out of the housing market by wealthy second home owners. Other Welsh councils, including Anglesey and Conwy, have also implemented council tax premiums, albeit at lower rates of 100%. Ceredigion is set to increase its premium from 100% to 150% in 2025, while Carmarthenshire currently charges a 50% premium.

Campaigners like Hedd Ladd Lewis, who advocates for housing market reform, welcomed the increase in second homes on the market as a positive sign but remained sceptical about whether local residents could afford these properties. “What we have is an open market and local people who earn wages – on average around £28,000 a year – will not be able to compete [for houses],” he said. Living in Newport, where 30% of properties are second homes or holiday lets, Lewis called for a legal act to ensure that the local community has the right to buy homes.

However, Aled Thomas, a local Conservative councillor, opposed the council tax premium, warning that it could harm the local economy. “Tourism is one of the things that brings money into the economy, but people are going out of business because of these policies,” he said. Thomas argued that the solution lies in building more homes, criticising the local council for constructing only 20 to 30 houses over the past 30 years. “That is disgraceful,” he added.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

4 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

4 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

4 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!