Holiday homes tax move welcomed

A local authority's decision to put all money it raises from taxing holiday and second homes into providing affordable housing has been welcomed.

Highland Council's former vice convener Michael Foxley, one of the principle campaigners for higher taxes on the properties, has applauded the move.

He said it could mean the provision of 25 to 50 affordable homes a year.

Mr Foxley said housing associations were finding it harder to build houses in remote and rural areas.

The Liberal Democrat councillor for Fort William and Ardnamurchan said: "This money can be used to bring the housing associations in to refurbish the older properties and help with new building."

David Corrigan, a community councillor in Ardgour, south of Fort William, said affordable housing was vital to remote communities.

He said it would encourage young people to stay and ensure the survival of local businesses.

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