A councillor has welcomed a decision to give private landlords of empty properties a council tax grace period.

Adel and Wharfedale councillor Barry Anderson, the shadow spokesman for housing, on Leeds City Council, say the decision follows a call made by him last October. It will mean a 100 per cent council tax discount where an unoccupied and unfurnished property has been empty for a period of seven days or less, to allow landlords time to get a new tenant.

Councillor Anderson said: “I am delighted that the Council has listened to my proposals and decided to introduce this scheme. It’s good news for landlords and good news for the Council too.

“A grace period of seven days will allow private landlords time to find a new tenant and fill the property again, before being hit with a demand for council tax.”