Limit on Airbnb-style lets in Highlands proposed

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BBC Scotland Highlands and Islands reporter Steven McKenzie has reported on a proposed solution to the housing shortage in the Highlands region. Councillors are suggesting the implementation of a Highland-wide control zone to address the issue of Airbnb-style lets. According to the councillors, there has been a significant increase in short-term let licenses granted in the region, with only four applications being denied.

The control zone would not outright ban holiday lets but would require operators to obtain planning permission in addition to a short-term lets license. Highland Council officials have acknowledged that establishing control area status for the entire Highlands would involve extensive research and could potentially lead to additional costs and workload for the planning department.

This initiative has been put forth by Inverness councillors Michael Gregson and Duncan Macpherson, who highlighted the urgent need for more than 24,000 homes in the region over the next decade. They pointed out the alarming decrease in the private long-term rental market, resulting in a shortage of affordable housing options. The councillors are urging the Scottish government to reconsider its initial plan for short-term lets legislation or consider approving Highland control area status if necessary.

While the move towards a Highland-wide control zone is seen as a viable solution to alleviate housing pressures, officials have raised concerns about the financial implications and potential challenges associated with such a designation. The City of Edinburgh Council’s experience with amending its licensing scheme following a court ruling serves as a cautionary example. Despite obstacles, the approval of Highland Council’s first control zone covering Badenoch and Strathspey in December 2023 underscores the importance of addressing housing issues to benefit local residents and workers

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More

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