# Local government taxation debates in Wales

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/local-government-taxation-debates-in-wales
> Updated: 2026-09-27T10:01:02.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Local authorities in Wales are navigating various proposals regarding new taxes and levies to address funding needs.

In Powys, the County Council is considering a stepped increase in Council Tax premiums for long-term empty properties. The proposal suggests a 200 per cent premium for properties vacant for five to ten years and a 300 per cent premium for those vacant for over a decade. Meanwhile, the Welsh Conservatives have advocated for a cap on Council Tax increases, suggesting that any hikes exceeding such a cap should require a local referendum.

In North Wales, several councils have moved to delay or reject a proposed visitor levy intended to fund tourism infrastructure. Anglesey council rejected the nightly fee following consultation data showing over 70 per cent opposition, while Conwy and Gwynedd councils have postponed their decisions. Local businesses and academics have expressed concerns regarding the impact of such charges on the tourism sector.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-27: North Wales councils delay introduction of visitor levy

North Wales councils in Anglesey, Conwy, and Gwynedd have delayed or rejected a proposed tourism tax following significant opposition from local businesses and visitors during consultations.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/north-wales-councils-delay-introduction-of-visitor-levy

### 2026-09-22: Wales faces debates over Council Tax premiums and rising household costs

Powys County Council considers increasing Council Tax premiums on empty homes, while Welsh Conservatives demand a cap on tax rises to protect households from rising living costs.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/wales-faces-debates-over-council-tax-premiums-and-rising-household-costs

---
Cite as: Local government taxation debates in Wales. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/local-government-taxation-debates-in-wales