I FULLY agree with Lotte Shankland (HAS, Oct 16) regarding student/landlord exemptions from council tax in the city of Durham.
The subsidy from central government has been reduced over the last few years and will shortly cease altogether.
Consequently, permanent residents in County Durham, many of whom are already struggling to pay increased council tax bills, will have to pick up the shortfall, which is already well in excess of £5m.
Currently, there are 18,000 students attending Durham university and this number is due to increase by in excess of 4,000.
I believe that Durham University does not pay council tax and pays only 20 per cent of its business tax as it is a registered charity, and student landlords pay neither council tax nor business tax.
Surely it is time for Durham County Council to investigate ways to address this deeply unfair situation as other local authorities, such as Liverpool, are doing.
N Hayton, Durham City
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here