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Post by Admin on May 26, 2014 19:36:56 GMT
Many of you maybe aware that a Welsh Assembly member is trying to push through a bill regarding occupency of Static Caravans.
In effect wanting to turn the Caravan Act 1960 on its head.
The argument is it spoils the Holiday experience and the increase in residents puts strain on local Hospitals Doctors etc. Furthermore a lot of the " Full Timers" arent paying Council Tax.
I was talking to a few folk in the Industry a couple of weeks ago in the Chapel St Leonards / Skegness area, that told me the councils were on a mission visiting sites.
Of course the counter argument is the "Full Timers" are spending in the resort helping sustain employment and generating taxes that way plus VAT.
Anyone else had an experience?
Whats Your thoughts?
Andy
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Post by firefox on May 28, 2014 15:41:16 GMT
What's the wording of the bill. Are they after people living on parks only?
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Post by Admin on May 28, 2014 16:26:16 GMT
A six week maximum stay has been muted, also proof of a primary residency ( council tax) needs to be furnished to the site where you are staying.
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Post by firefox on May 28, 2014 17:02:50 GMT
So from another angle, could you could only stay for 6 weeks on a park, without having to register for council tax, if you didn't have another residence.
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Post by Admin on May 28, 2014 17:58:51 GMT
Good question, My understanding is at present a holiday home isnt liable for council tax unless it is a residential park. But then band a and I guess straightforward it is a primary residence.
The authorities are of the opinion, some site owners are turning a blind eye, and in effect running a residential park on a holiday park licence.
They are using the tact of full timing spoils a holiday atmosphere, and the area is subject to pressure re doctors etc. of course there may be an interest in that people are evading council tax.
Councils are accessing those on benefits to establish status, and paying physical visits to establish whats happening.
Be interesting to hear from a site operator ..their take, my understanding is they get the bullets too.
Andy
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Post by Admin on Jun 4, 2014 5:37:51 GMT
A quick update, I have forwarded the proposed bill, to John Thompson and after a quick look he is of the opinion some of the wording is ambiguous and could directly impact on the motorhoming community.
Part of the consultation process has closed, but he has e mailed Darren Millar who is proposing the bill for clarifcation and further points to consider.
Be interesting to see what develops, John seems never short of tenacity when required.
Unrelated of course to the static scenario, but within two weeks of being live,the forum in an indirect way has identified an issue and seeking redress.
Andy
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Post by firefox on Jun 4, 2014 8:50:24 GMT
There's some good value fulltiming lets to be had for vans. I remember one in East Yorkshire greengrasspark.co.uk/ ... they offer 365 day pitches for £4 a night. Nice location - lake, park. fishing, bar etc. I wonder if people staying there will be hit for council tax? |
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Post by Admin on Jun 4, 2014 13:34:58 GMT
If they are licensed as a residential park I would say so, its if they are a Holiday park,allowing residential use that things get complicated and partly the reason for Mr Millars bill.
Good link btw Firefox.
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Post by Admin on Jun 16, 2014 7:33:21 GMT
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