Second home owners in Northumberland could soon face a huge hike in their council tax if planned Government legislation comes into force.
The Levelling Up bill, which is currently awaiting royal assent, would allow councils to charge up to double the amount of council tax on second homes and empty properties.
Second homes are seen as a considerable issue in some parts of Northumberland, particularly in the national park and on the coast - and now the county council has pledged to act.
