A PROPOSAL to double council tax premium for owners of empty homes will be discussed next week.

Allerdale council's executive committee wants to encourage owners to bring empty homes back into use.

Currently there is a 50 per cent premium on their council tax for empty properties.

The proposals that will be considered are:

- Introduce a premium of 100 per cent for properties that have been empty for at least two years with effect from April 1, 2019.

- Introduce a premium of 200% for properties that have been empty for at least five years with effect from April 1, 2020.

- Introduce a premium of 300% for properties that have been empty for at least ten years with effect from April 1, 2021.

The number of long-term empty homes in Allerdale has increased annually since 2013 when there was 302, compared to the current figure of 357.

A spokesman for Allerdale council said: "One of the council’s key priorities is to take action on derelict and empty properties to ensure residents have the housing they need as well as make the borough an attractive and welcoming place for residents and visitors."

The proposal will be discussed at a meeting on Wednesday, January 16 at 10am at Allerdale House.

The council may be able to help get an empty property back into use. Owners should contact the housing team for more details on 0303 123 1702.