A stark regional divide has emerged in public opinion over a proposed annual property tax, with northern England and Wales voicing strong support while London and the South East resist change. A survey of 2,203 UK adults commissioned by estate agency Cavendish found that in the North East, 37% backed the proposal, followed closely by the North West at 35%, and Wales at 33%. In contrast, support dwindled to 28% in London and just 23% in the South East.
The regional differences are stark. The North West and Wales recorded the highest proportion of individuals who 'strongly supported' the idea, both at 16%, while London and the South East lagged behind with only 7% expressing strong support. Conversely, outright opposition was most significant in London and the South East, where 16% of respondents 'strongly opposed' the proposal, compared to 10% in the North West.
The majority of UK residents remain unsure about the proposed shift to an annual property tax, with 37% of respondents indicating they did not yet know whether they supported or opposed it. Simon Leadbetter, founder of The Voice of the Agent and a marketing adviser to Cavendish, noted that regional house prices seem to mirror the public's views on the proposal, although the survey does not explore the reasons behind these attitudes.
David Adams, managing director of Cavendish, suggests the high number of undecided respondents indicates that property tax reform is still in its early stages. As discussions progress, many homeowners will likely seek more information to understand the potential financial implications for their households. The government's approach will face scrutiny from both homeowners and opposition parties due to the significant impact it could have on household finances nationwide.