Bristol faces a £2.6 million loss in council tax due to student exemptions, sparking calls for change from local residents and officials.
Bristol: The city is feeling the pinch from its growing student population. This year, the council is missing out on £2.6 million in council tax because students don’t pay it. They enjoy city services like rubbish collection and parks but don’t contribute financially.
Many locals think there’s too much student housing. Councillors believe the government should step in and help fund the city. They argue that the student exemptions create a real financial strain.
While the exact cost of these exemptions is unclear, it’s definitely rising. During a council meeting, officials noted that students do help the local economy by visiting pubs and shops.
Right now, there are tons of student flats being built. Some developers are getting away with creating homes that don’t meet basic standards. For example, there’s a new block going up near Temple Meads train station.
Conservative Councillor Jonathan Hucker pointed out the challenges. He said the large student population is a double-edged sword. It brings money to the hospitality sector but also creates financial issues for the council.
One commenter, Junius1, suggested that while a government subsidy for student council tax sounds good, it’s unlikely to happen soon. Many students struggle financially, and forcing them to pay could lead to more problems.
Another commenter, Prims, argued that the current situation benefits universities and developers but not local residents. They proposed a charge on developers to help boost council revenue.
Madsaxon agreed, saying the council should be able to tax students or at least charge landlords and universities. The council is in a tough spot financially.
Lliquid pointed out that if students paid council tax, it could help cover costs like the Bristol Beacon refurbishment. They suggested the council should focus on its spending instead of just chasing tax revenue.
Downtowngirl raised a good point about empty properties. Many student flats sit vacant for a third of the year. How many families could use those homes?
Fatlike mentioned that students and their families spend a lot in the local economy, which should count for something. But Belloc countered that the council has to deal with the mess students leave behind.
Zilul chimed in, saying they support the local economy but still have to pay council tax. Blackbeard83 added that students might become taxpayers after graduation, but they’re already in debt.
What do you think? Should students pay council tax? Is there too much student housing in Bristol? Share your thoughts in the comments!
