Flood-hit victims to get tax exemption (From Witney Gazette)

Flood-hit victims to get tax exemption

10:17am Monday 21st July 2008 in Witney By David Horne

Flood victims in west Oxfordshire will continue to receive exemption on council tax while their homes are being repaired.

The district council estimates there are still 80 homes unoccupied as a result of last July's floods and about 50 of them will remain vacant until December.

The loss in council tax to date is estimated at around £300,000 and could be another £50,000 by the end of this year.

The Government has agreed it will meet the cost of the exemptions.

Simon Hoare, cabinet member for resources, said: "Owners of properties still under renovation will not have to pay council tax on their home in addition to their current temporary accommodation."