Beach huts at Mudeford Spit and Hengistbury Head near Bournemouth will be charged the full rate for second home Council Tax, following a recent decision by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council.
The council intends to change the classification of huts that were previously eligible for a 50% Council Tax discount. From 1 April 2026, the huts will be categorised as Class A second homes, in line with professional advice, and will be subject to the full Council Tax rate.
The decision reflects the fact that the huts, which can sell for between £400,000 and £575,000, are used as holiday homes. These properties are not a main residence and are furnished, which meets the definition of a second home.
Under the new arrangements, the previous 50% discount will be removed. Based on 2025/26 Council Tax rates for a band A property, this will increase annual bills for owners to £1,503, or just over £60 per month.
BCP Council estimates that the change will raise an additional £211,000 to help fund essential local services for residents, along with extra contributions from the precept for fire and police services.
The council says the adjustment is part of a broader response to ongoing financial pressures. Analysis of the recently announced Provisional Local Government Financial Settlement shows that BCP Council will receive less funding than previously expected.
The policy replaces legacy arrangements inherited from the former Bournemouth and Christchurch councils. Around 340 beach huts will be affected, including 231 owned by non-residents of the BCP Council area. All of the huts are in the lowest Council Tax band, band A.
Cllr Mike Cox, Cabinet Member for Finance, said: “BCP Council, like all local authorities across England, faces an unprecedented, ongoing financial crisis and the latest government settlement does not address this. As a result of this severe financial pressure, the council must use all levers at its disposal to raise funds to protect essential services important to our residents.”
He added: “Beach huts on Mudeford Spit often sell for between £400,000 and £575,000 – more than the £313,000 average price, according to the Office for National Statistics, of a home in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, yet historically, owners have been given discounts on Council Tax. And, while we welcome all those who want to enjoy our beautiful coastline, we must recognise that this brings extra demand for services such as beach cleaning and flood protection – the cost of which is mostly borne by our residents.
“This change delivers fairness and consistency for all owners of second homes in the area. We understand this change may be disappointing for some owners, but it is important to apply Council Tax policy consistently and fairly across the BCP area.”
