Politics
South Bank City Council Approves Local Housing Support Levy, First Collections Scheduled for July 2027
The new levy will add an average of £18 per month to rental agreements in South Bank starting next summer.
How we reported this
The South Bank City Council voted 9-4 on 7 July to introduce the Local Housing Support Levy on all rental properties within city limits. The measure takes effect on 1 July 2027 and applies to both new tenancies and lease renewals.
Council records show the levy was added to the 2026-27 budget papers after housing waiting lists reached 4,800 households in March. The policy document states that revenue will be ring-fenced for 180 new affordable units and upgrades to three existing council estates on the east side of the river.
Changes for tenants and landlords
Landlords must include the levy line item on tenancy agreements from the July 2027 start date. A one-bedroom flat with a current monthly rent of £950 would incur an extra £18, while a three-bedroom house would add £32. Tenants renewing leases after that date will receive written notice at least 60 days in advance, as required by the council's tenancy regulations.
Local advocates note that the levy will affect the 15,200 households currently renting privately in South Bank. The legislation states that landlords cannot apply the charge retrospectively to agreements signed before 1 July 2027.
Implementation steps and payment schedule
The council's finance department will issue the first collection notices in April 2027, with payments due quarterly through the council's online portal. Budget papers project the levy will generate £4.2 million in its first full year, funding construction contracts that begin site work in September 2027.
Residents can apply for exemptions through the housing department if their household income falls below £28,000. The application window opens on 1 January 2027 and closes 30 days before the first payment is due.