MPs Demand Planning Laws to Tackle Airbnb Boom in Cornwall
The UK housing market has been under increasing pressure due to the surge in short-term holiday lets through platforms like Airbnb. Now, a group of MPs is pushing for urgent legislative reform to place tighter control on second homeowners converting properties into lucrative rentals in picturesque locations such as Cornwall.
The proposed changes aim to introduce a bill requiring second home owners in popular tourist destinations to secure planning permission before turning their properties into short-term lets. This, supporters argue, would restrict unchecked growth and prioritise homes for local residents rather than tourists.
Why Cornwall is at the Epicentre of the Debate
Cornwall, famous for its rugged beaches and charming seaside villages, has become one of the UK’s most popular destinations for holidaymakers booking stays through Airbnb. But this popularity comes at a cost. According to housing data, there has been a sharp rise in second-home ownership while simultaneously witnessing an acute shortage of affordable homes for residents.
In some areas, one in ten houses is now listed as a holiday home, a troubling figure that’s driving locals out and pushing property prices beyond reach for first-time buyers. To counter this trend, Conservative MP Sir Gary Streeter is leading a cross-party push to make it a legal requirement for homeowners to obtain planning permission before offering short-term rentals.
Streeter told Parliament that this “wild west” system must end, as entire communities are being hollowed out to serve the tourism economy rather than those who live and work there year-round.
The Proposed Legislation and What It Could Mean
The proposed bill will, if passed, allow local councils to better regulate the number of short-term lets. It aims to bring more equilibrium to towns and villages that are increasingly reliant on tourism but suffer from housing instability.
This proposed policy isn’t just about limiting holiday lets—it’s about saving communities. Overcrowded tourist towns often see reduced investment in basic infrastructure and essential services like schools and GP surgeries, owing to an unpredictable and transient population. This change is designed to give communities more control and help reverse these unintended consequences of the Airbnb boom.
To understand the wider context and navigate this shifting regulatory landscape, it’s worth checking out some crucial Airbnb management insights. For example, take a look at this guide on the 90-day Airbnb rule, which outlines existing regulations in other cities and what may be coming to areas like Cornwall.
Pushback and Perspectives
Understandably, property investors and some tourism-focused businesses have pushed back against the proposed bill. They argue that such legislation could stifle the local economies that rely heavily on visitor spending. With Cornwall attracting 5 million tourists annually and tourism contributing £1.8 billion to the local economy, striking the right balance is key.
However, critics of the current system note that it disproportionately benefits absentee landlords while failing to provide long-term social or economic benefits to local communities. According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), unregulated short-term lets can distort housing markets, inflate rents, and reduce housing availability.
There is also pressure to move quickly. Labour MP Luke Pollard pointed to areas like Plymouth and Devon, which are also grappling with similar challenges. Without reform, there is concern that more areas will become seasonal ghost towns.
What This Means for Airbnb Property Owners
If this bill gains traction and becomes law, it could mark a fundamental shift in how short-term lets are managed in the UK. Property owners looking to enter the Airbnb market—or those already hosting—must prepare for potential regulatory compliance, licensing, and limitations on letting days.
Professional Airbnb management companies have already begun adapting to increasingly regulated environments. For instance, Airbnb management services in Oxford operate within similar constraints and may provide a practical blueprint for how to thrive under new conditions.
In locations like London and Bath, these services have proven essential for navigating stringent local ordinances while maximising earning potential. If you’re considering starting or continuing an Airbnb business, align with specialists who understand evolving legal requirements and local market dynamics.
Creating a Balanced Future for Communities and Hosts
While the UK government has historically encouraged flexible use of properties, current housing pressures and community concerns have made the status quo increasingly unsustainable. Introducing planning requirements may not solve every challenge, but it could restore a sense of balance between tourism and livelihood for people living in tourist-heavy towns.
For hosts and property managers, now is the time to focus on quality, sustainability, and community integration. Taking the right steps—like maintaining properties to a high standard and being considerate of long-term impacts—can go a long way. If you’re looking for advice, these top 10 tips for maintaining your Airbnb property offer actionable insights.
As we look ahead, the future of Airbnb and short-term rentals in the UK hinges not only on legislation but on how hosts, communities, and local authorities adapt. The more we can move toward responsible tourism, the more sustainable and welcoming these beautiful towns will remain for everyone.
To stay informed on Airbnb trends and regional management strategies, check out our article on how Airbnb management in London is shaping the future of tourism. This piece explores how cities are dealing with similar challenges and what strategies are proving effective.
For a broader overview on tourism’s impact and possible reforms, Visit Cornwall offers valuable data on visitor numbers, seasonality, and the long-term vision for tourism in the region.