Welsh Government extends housing aid schemes as Powys Council seeks input on empty‑home tax

Powys County Council is consulting residents and stakeholders on its Council Tax premium for long‑term empty homes. Currently a 100% premium is charged on properties empty for over a year, and the council is considering a stepped increase up to the Welsh Government‑allowed maximum of 300%. The consultation notes 897 empty homes in Powys, about 1.3% of the county’s housing stock, and asks for views on the impact of vacant properties and the desirability of a tiered premium. Cllr David Thomas said the measure aims to bring empty homes back into use and support affordable housing.

At the national level, the Welsh Government has extended the Help to Buy Wales, Help to Stay Wales and Empty Homes Grant programmes until 31 March 2027. The extensions will support up to 400 households buying new‑build homes, assist owners with mortgage pressures, and fund renovation of up to 300 empty properties. Planning and Policy Advisor Mark Harris said the continuation is critical to address the housing shortage and cost‑of‑living pressures while broader delivery challenges remain.