Review rage (From Free Press Series)

Review rage

LIVID at a 25 percent hike in their council tax bill, a Pontypool couple have hit out at an 'unfair' review of property values that has left them fearing for the future.

Pensioner Terry Lloyd said he and his wife Carole have now been 'pushed to their limits,' as their home was moved from a band E to a band F.

They now face a 25 percent increase on their bill, this year alone, due to the revaluation of property in Wales

The rise follows the Valuations Office Agency's first review of property since the Council Tax was introduced in 1993.

But for the Lloyd household it has meant a meteoric leap costing an extra £260, in one year.

The review means that Mr Lloyd is not alone in facing an increase - 22 percent of Torfaen households will go up at least one council tax band.

Mrs Lloyd said: "This re-valuation is not fair - it would be better if you were charged on your income. Each house should be judged on its own merits."

Currently a value is given to houses by the Valuations Office Agency, following a kerb-side inspection.

Though around five percent could get a reduction in their bills after re-banding, and 73 percent will see no change, others could have to undergo huge increases.

Many Torfaen residents felt the pinch, with over 8500 homes moving up at least one band. South East Wales AM and Liberal Democrat Assembly Leader Mike German called for the government to axe the tax.

"Examples like this are the reason why more people are coming to the conclusion that Council Tax must be scrapped.

"The increase in bills bears no relation to income or ability to pay. The whole revaluation process is random and arbitrary, with some poorer areas seeing bills rise by hundreds of pounds, while some richer areas get tax cuts," he added.

Mrs Lloyd said April 1 was a fitting day for the rebanding to come into effect: "It has made fools of all of us," she said. "We have worked hard all our lives, my husband carried sacks of coal on his back to be able to buy this house and now we may be forced to sell, especially as they are already talking about increases in tax for next year."

l To appeal against the re-banding of your house call the Valuations Office Agency appeal helpline on 0845 6001748, or visit their website www.voa.gov.uk.

There is no charge to lodge an appeal.