Man loses house for not paying council tax

Bury Council has taken possession of a property within the borough for non-payment of council tax stretching back a decade.

The 45-year-old owner had not made any payments since 2011 and owed arrears for periods going back to 2005.

Bury Council took the rare step of seeking possession of the terraced house after he had not responded to numerous letters and reminders. Court summonses were issued and liability orders obtained, and enforcement agents were instructed.

The property has now been sold at auction and the council tax debts of £6,715 and associated costs and fees will be recovered from the sale.

The council is actively collecting outstanding council tax by means ofenforcement action where necessary.

Councillor Sandra Walmsley, cabinet member for strategic housing and support services, said: “We are determined to take action against those who don’t pay their council tax. The vast majority of Bury residents, who do pay their taxes, rightly expect us to do so, as this income is essential in providing the frontline services that they want and need.

“We do recognise that some people are in financial difficulty, and we want to help where we can. If anyone is struggling to pay their council tax, I would urge them to contact us as soon as possible before the problem escalates.”

ENDS

Press release issued: 22 November 2016.