6. Statement by the Minister for Education and Welsh Language: The Welsh Language Communities Housing Plan

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:52 pm on 23 November 2021.

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Photo of Samuel Kurtz Samuel Kurtz Conservative 4:52, 23 November 2021

I would also point out that, throughout Wales, there exist more empty properties than second homes, and so I would be interested in knowing what the Minister and his Cabinet colleagues plan to do in addressing these issues. What will be done to get these properties back into use, allowing more people to have a home? Properties that are permanently empty 24/7 and that are not adequately maintained can have an impact on a local area, but equally they can help aid the solution to this very discussion we’re having this afternoon. I fear this solution has, perhaps, fallen under the radar, and so is one that requires greater debate and further focus.

There is also evidence in areas where second home premiums have been added to council tax that second home owners are flipping their properties over and registering them as self-catering units, thus avoiding the need to pay higher taxes, and sometimes meaning they pay no rates at all. Strengthening the eligibility criteria to stop this from happening must be a priority. Genuine self-catering businesses would welcome the removal of this unscrupulous behaviour by some second-home owners. Tourism mustn’t be seen as the enemy, but rather a key addition to our economy. Our rich culture, beautiful landscapes and warm welcome see people visit Wales, supporting jobs and livelihoods.