CHALET owners in Allonby could have a 50 per cent council tax discount reinstated after councillors voted in favour of the move.

Members of Cumberland Council's businesses and resources overview and scrutiny committee met at Cumbria House in Carlisle on Tuesday (February 20) to consider a report from a task and finish group.

According to the report on the council tax discounts and premiums for second homes policy, there were three recommendations:

  • that the council proceeds with its intention to introduce a 100 per cent premium for second homes from the year 2025/26;
  • that second homes (class A) which cannot be lived in on a permanent basis should receive an appropriate discount – it is understood that this would be 50 per cent;
  • and over the next six to nine months discretionary discounts be consulted on including other properties that are not class A.

Task and finish group chairman, councillor Brian Wernham (Stanwix Urban, Lib Dems), told the committee that the recommendations were "not contentious".

Committee chairman, councillor Joe Ghayouba (Bransty, Labour), proposed that they adopt the recommendations and Ian Hinde, a council policy officer, suggested that clarification over the legislation be added.

Members voted in favour of the recommendations, with the proposed changes to the wording, and the report is due to be debated by the full council on Wednesday, March 6, at the Civic Centre in Carlisle.

The move was prompted by a local campaign group which highlighted their situation in Allonby – Allonby Chalet Owners Campaign Group.

The group had argued that the chalets are not second homes and should not be taxed as such.

The report states: "Here they occupy chalets, a type of structure that is not as robust as would be expected of a main residence, some are similar to a prefabricated cabin. These chalets, by virtue of planning restrictions can only be occupied for nine months of the year."

The task and finish group, which consisted of four members of the committee, met on three occasions during January and February this year to consider the matter.

Their report adds: "This is as a result of the significant national debate about the nature and quantum of second home ownership, its impact on housing supply and its role in the economy.

"Cumberland Council is especially interested in this due to the role that the Lake District National Park plays in attracting second homes.

"Local campaign groups supported the introduction of council tax premiums for second homes in Keswick and have also supported the enforcement of planning rules designed to support the occupation of properties by permanent residents."