Cornwall Council seeks more power to regulate holiday lets

Airbnb has advocated for Cornwall Council to gain enhanced authority to regulate short-term rentals, emphasizing the need for better data and tools. The platform has reached out to local MPs and councillors to support the implementation of new regulations, including a registration scheme for holiday let operators. The Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government acknowledged community concerns regarding the prevalence of second homes and holiday lets, which contribute to local housing shortages. Starting in April 2025, local authorities will have the option to impose a council tax premium of up to 100% on second homes, aimed at alleviating housing pressures. The government is also working on a registration scheme for short-term lets, which is expected to be introduced in England soon. This initiative is part of a broader effort to empower councils to manage the impact of holiday rentals on local communities. Olly Monk, the portfolio holder for housing, expressed support for Airbnb's call for a registration scheme, noting that the company has been unfairly blamed for issues related to overtourism in Cornwall. Despite criticisms, Airbnb claims that most of its hosts in Cornwall list properties for limited durations, with only a small fraction of homes being rented out extensively. The ongoing dialogue between Airbnb, local authorities, and the government reflects a growing recognition of the need to balance tourism with community needs. As regulations evolve, stakeholders aim to ensure that local residents are not adversely affected by the rise of holiday lets, while also addressing the concerns of visitors seeking accommodations in Cornwall.