A HOME in Cheshunt has been repossessed by Broxbourne Council after the occupants failed to pay council tax for nine years.

Despite bills, reminders and action being taken in the magistrates’ court, the occupants in Franklin Avenue accrued more than £13,000 since 10 February 2003, including court costs and interest. 

All bills, reminders, final notices, summons, liability orders, bailiff and committal action were ignored.

Excluding two payments totalling £520, there was no attempt to pay the council tax owed over a period of nine years.

Having tried all other available recovery processes allowed under council tax legislation, Broxbourne Council applied legal charges to the property. 

A possession order has been made by the court and a warrant for eviction was issued to the owner of the property.

Both occupants have met with council officers and the situation has been explained to them fully. 

They have been advised to take legal advice and have attended the Citizens’ Advice Bureau.

The application for a warrant was made to Edmonton County Court early in October 2011 and the eviction date was set by the courts.

The repossession took place on Thursday December 15 and the property will now be sold and all proceeds used to discharge debts on the property, with any remaining balance due to be paid to the owner.

A council spokesman said: “The Council regrets such action is necessary and is thankful that repossessions happen only rarely in the borough as a last resort when all other avenues have been explored. 

“This is the second case this financial year where a court has ordered for a property to be repossessed.

“The other case was settled by arrangement ahead of the repossession taking place.”

Residents who are struggling to pay their council tax should call the council’s revenues team as soon as possible on (01992) 785504 or visit www.broxbourne.gov.uk.