VVD Barendrecht proposes vacancy tax to combat housing shortage

The VVD Barendrecht political group is calling for action to address long-term housing vacancies in Barendrecht, Netherlands. Citing a severe housing shortage, the group has submitted written questions to the municipal executive to determine the exact scale of the problem, specifically requesting data on properties that have remained empty for six months, one year, and two years without being offered for sale or rent.

Fraction leader Jacinta Floor stated that while temporary vacancies due to renovations, care facility admissions, or estate settlements should be considered, intentionally leaving homes empty is undesirable. The VVD is proposing that the municipality investigate the implementation of a vacancy tax aimed at discouraging long-term, unjustified emptiness to ensure homes are used for their intended purpose of habitation.