Authorities will have the option of cutting benefit paid, or trying to fill the funding gap by scrapping the 50% discounts for second homes and empty properties - or cutting spending on services.

BBC: Council Tax Benefit change 'to create poll tax Mk II'

Ministers are cutting red tape to make it easier for business people to move into empty premises and open so-called pop-up shops.

BBC: Plan to boost UK High Streets after Mary Portas report