HOLIDAY home owners in Ryedale are facing an increase in the council tax they pay under a potential change in collection rules.

A change in policy on the collection of council tax from second homes could generate up to £250,000 in extra income for Ryedale District Council.

The Government is looking into making second-home owners pay the full amount of council tax. Owners who use the property less than 140 days a year are currently required to pay only half the normal rate of council tax. But the Government is consulting local councils on whether this policy should change.

Last night, the council's Policy and Resources Committee agreed to back that change.

Committee chairman Coun Elizabeth Shields said she was keen for second-home owners to pay the full amount because they could afford it.

"If they can afford a second home in Ryedale, why shouldn't they pay the full amount. Young people who are thinking of moving to the area are surrounded by empty holiday homes. I think the money generated should come back to this council and be spent on improving rural transport."

The council's decision will form part of a nationwide consultation.

Updated: 11:23 Friday, February 08, 2002