Haringey sees off Court of Appeal challenge to its council tax reduction scheme

The Court of Appeal has ruled in favour of the London Borough of Haringey over a challenge to its council tax reduction scheme, Local Government Lawyer understands.

The court announced its judgment today and is expected to give the reasons for the ruling on Friday (15 February).

Law firm Irwin Mitchell, which was acting on behalf of a local resident, was seeking to overturn a ruling by Mr Justice Underhill in the High Court last week that was also in favour of Haringey.

The judge ruled that Haringey’s consultation was fair. However, he did give permission to appeal.

The Court of Appeal’s reasoning will be keenly anticipated by a number of other authorities that are facing legal proceedings in this area.

Council tax reduction schemes, operated locally, are due to replace council tax benefit in April.

Irwin Mitchell has criticised local authorities for failing to take up a Government offer of a grant, and also suggested that some are in breach of the duties under the Equality Act 2010.

Haringey instructed Clive Sheldon QC and Heather Emmerson of 11KBW.