Christchurch beach hut owners lose council tax discount

Changes to Council Tax for Beach Hut Owners in Christchurch

More than 300 beach hut owners in Christchurch will lose their council tax discount. This change is part of the council’s plan to raise money.

Beach huts at Mudeford Spit and Hengistbury Head have had a 50% discount on council tax. Starting on 1st April, these huts will be reclassified as class A second homes. They will then be subject to full council tax.

This change will impact just over 340 beach huts. Of these, 231 are owned by non-residents of the BCP Council area. People can stay overnight in these huts. The change is expected to generate an additional £211,000 for BCP Council.

Financial Pressures on BCP Council

BCP’s analysis of the Provisional Local Government Financial Settlement shows the council will receive less funding than expected. BCP is facing financial pressure from the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG). The council anticipates a £180 million deficit from funding SEND provision by March. It is also expected to cover nearly £10 million in interest costs.

Official Statements on the Changes

Cllr Mike Cox, cabinet member for finance, stated, “The council must use all levers at its disposal to raise funds to protect essential services important to our residents.”

He added, “Beach huts on Mudeford Spit often sell for between £400,000 and £575,000. This is more than the £313,000 average price of a home in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole. Yet historically, owners have received discounts on council tax.”

Cllr Cox also mentioned, “While we welcome all those who want to enjoy our beautiful coastline, we must recognize that this brings extra demand for services such as beach cleaning and flood protection. The cost of these services is mostly borne by our residents.”

He concluded, “This change delivers fairness and consistency for all owners of second homes in the area. We understand this change may be disappointing for some owners, but it is important to apply council tax policy consistently and fairly across the BCP area.”

Next Steps

The plans are expected to be discussed at the cabinet meeting on Wednesday, 14th January. The report recommends that the council approves the removal of the council tax discount.