The council has unveiled a plan to double the council tax payable by beach hut owners in Mudeford, citing increased maintenance costs and heightened coastal erosion risks. The proposal, set to take effect from the upcoming fiscal year, would see owners of rental and secondary beach properties facing a significant hike in annual levies. The council’s justification cites broader budgetary deficits and the need for improved infrastructure along the coast. Detailed legislative amendments will be introduced next month, allowing for a public consultation period before voting. _2_bThe owners of the beach huts have responded with immediate scrutiny of the council’s proposal, demanding a formal review of the plan’s legality. A representative community group, formed to protect the interests of local tenants and property holders, has issued a statement claiming the doubling of taxes violates established statutory caps on property tax hikes. They have called for an interim injunction and have expressed willingness to pursue court action if the council proceeds unchallenged. Press releases state that a legal brief will be prepared by local counsel to assess statutory compliance. The group plans to hold an emergency meeting within the next week to discuss next steps. /b _3_bLegally, the council must demonstrate that the tax increase adheres to the Home Affairs Act provisions governing local taxation thresholds. Should the council’s amendment fail to meet statutory requirements, the owners could seek adjudication from the High Court, potentially setting a precedent for other coastal communities faced with similar demands. The legal challenge would involve a detailed examination of previous council tax rates, the calculation methodology for the proposed increase, and the potential impact on island households and secondary owners. The outcome of this dispute will likely influence future policy decisions across the United Kingdom’s coastal regions, prompting a reassessment of local tax strategies. /b