Move to Encourage Use of Empty Non-Domestic Properties

A move to encourage owners to get empty non-domestic properties back into use across Dundee is to be considered by councillors.

The City Governance Committee will discuss a proposal to revise the council’s Non-Domestic Rates Empty Property policy.

This would mean a change from April next year from the current system of open-ended exemptions and reliefs for all empty non-domestic properties.

The new policy would place a 6-month time limit on any award.

Councillors will hear that the responsibility for Non-Domestic Rates Empty Property Relief has been devolved from the Scottish Government to local authorities.

A report explains that the proposal has the potential to generate over £1.5 million and would involve around 560 buildings, 90 of which are owned by the council itself.

Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure convener Councillor Steven Rome said: “This change will help to encourage owners to actively find a use for non-domestic buildings which are currently empty.

“This is part of a series of actions we are taking to boost the local economy by enhancing the city and attract more businesses and customers.

“If approved, these proposals will not come in until April 2024.

“We will make sure that owners and businesses are contacted so that they know that these changes will take place and how they will affect them.”

The City Governance Committee Meets on Monday August 21.