EVESHAM’s MP and Tourism Minister Nigel Huddleston has launched a review into short-term tourist accommodation which will seek to improve the holiday letting market for those living in popular tourism areas.
An initial ‘call for evidence’ will run for 12 weeks until September 21, and aims to understand the impact of the increase in short-term holiday lets in England following the rise in the use of rental booking websites such as Airbnb.
The review will look at the size market and seeks views on the benefits and challenges of the growth in holiday lettings for both consumers and communities.
“We’ve seen huge growth in the range of holiday accommodation available over the last few years,” Mr Huddleston said.
“We want to reap the benefits of the boom in short-term holiday lets while protecting community interests and making sure England has high-quality tourist accommodation.
“Many people rent out a room in their house or a second home in order to earn income and this contributes to the economy and ensures a good supply and range of accommodation.
“But the boom in holiday lettings has also caused house price inflation and reduced the supply of reasonably prices rental properties for local residents in parts of the country.
Visit www.gov.uk/government/consultations/developing-a-tourist-accommodation-registration-scheme-in-england for more.
