Changes in Council Tax mooted

RESIDENTS in the area are being made aware of potential changes to Council Tax bands.

The Scottish Government has drawn up different options for changing council tax bands.

Their proposals would mean revaluations for properties and potential changes to annual bills.

And all the suggestions include increasing the number of bands, up to eight, 12 or even 14.

The government is currently carrying out a public consultation to gather views on their proposals.

It closes in January but South Scotland MSP Craig Hoy is concerned not enough people locally know about it.

And he also fears if it goes ahead then it would mean soaring bills for thousands of Dumfriesshire residents

This week he highlighted that those living in the largest homes could end up paying as much as £6515 a year, which would equate to what Mr Hoy describes as a ‘staggering’ 72 per cent increase.

He said: “These proposals could see residents in Dumfriesshire clobbered with yet another jaw-dropping tax hike. That appears to be the SNP’s only answer to try to fill the black hole they are responsible for creating in Scotland’s finances.

“The last thing residents here need is the prospect of another giant rise in council tax looming over them.

“People in Dumfriesshire are sick and tired of paying more but getting less in return when it comes to vital local services.”

To see the consultation, and give your views, go to https://consult.gov.scot/local-government-and-communities/the-future-of-council-tax-in-scotland/