MPs Push for Planning Permission on Holiday Lets Amid Cornish Housing Crisis
As Cornwall’s picturesque coastline continues to attract hundreds of thousands of tourists each year, the influx of holiday lets and second homes is taking a heavy toll on the region’s residents. A growing number of Members of Parliament (MPs) are now demanding urgent legislative changes to curb the transformation of private properties into short-term holiday lets—particularly those listed on platforms such as Airbnb.
In a recent push, MPs are calling on the government to introduce a new “Airbnb Bill” that would force second-home owners in Cornish beauty spots to seek planning permission before converting their residences into lucrative holiday accommodation. The proposed legislation aims to rebalance housing needs in communities facing severe shortages of affordable homes, especially for locals and key workers.
Cornwall’s Struggle with Housing Affordability
The south-west county, known for its charming villages and stunning beaches, has seen a dramatic increase in holiday rentals. However, local families say they are being priced out of their hometowns due to soaring property values driven by demand from second-home buyers and investors. For many residents, the shift is more than inconvenient; it’s unsustainable.
It is estimated that nearly twice as many homes in Cornwall are now second homes or short-term rentals compared to London. The rapid growth of these rentals is fuelling a housing crisis that leaves essential workers like nurses and teachers struggling to find long-term accommodation nearby. The impact is felt year-round—not only during peak tourist seasons.
To tackle this, local councils as well as MPs across party lines are pushing for tighter control over how homes are used. According to reports, the new bill would ensure local planning authorities have a say before any change of use is made from residential to short-term let, including those listed via platforms like Airbnb.
What the Proposed Bill Would Mean
The suggested legislation aims to remove certain permitted development rights, which currently allow homeowners to transform properties into vacation rentals without needing a change in planning status. If passed, anyone looking to list a home on Airbnb—or any short-let platform—would first require formal approval from their council.
This change could significantly impact the rental yield strategies common amongst property investors and second-home owners. At the same time, it could open new opportunities for dedicated rental management companies to support property owners in navigating the complex planning landscape.
For property managers and owners who still want to maintain competitive edge and compliance, understanding the planning rules and making smart management decisions will be essential. For instance, those managing rentals in other UK cities may draw on expertise from professional services like those at Moa & Kin’s Airbnb management in Bath, where a balance between tourism and local needs is already being skillfully managed.
Backlash from Second-Home Owners
Some second-home owners have voiced strong opposition to the proposals, arguing that converting and renting their homes provides necessary tourism infrastructure and helps stimulate local economies. They also warn that tougher restrictions could lead to negative economic impacts as fewer holiday rentals may mean reduced visitor numbers and spending.
However, MPs counter that this is a necessary trade-off to maintain Cornwall’s community life, affordability, and sustainable tourism. In fact, areas like St Ives have already adopted planning restrictions to curb the number of new builds being turned into holiday homes—and seen positive results as a consequence.
Wider Impacts on the Short-Term Rental Industry
The proposed Airbnb Bill could set a precedent not just in Cornwall, but across other tourism-heavy regions in the UK. Cities with a high density of short rentals are already grappling with how to preserve their housing stock for residents while catering to tourists.
Property owners and hosts must now factor potential regulations into their business models more carefully. Whether you’re operating in Cornwall, Oxford, Bristol or London, staying informed and planning ahead will be crucial. Hosts should also consider complying with similar rules such as London’s 90-day cap on short-term lets per calendar year.
How Hosts Can Adapt
Understanding new legislation, maintaining high standards, and optimising for long-term sustainability may turn a potential setback into an opportunity. This is where services from experienced Airbnb management companies can add significant value.
Whether you’re new to short letting or a seasoned host, looking into professional services designed for property management can help navigate new hurdles and maintain profit margins. From guest communications to legal compliance and maximizing bookings, partnering with dedicated managers could be the key difference-maker.
Ultimately, the shift towards regulation aims to build more balanced communities where tourism coexists with local life—rather than overpowering it. At stake is not just the fate of short-term profit, but the character and sustainability of beloved regions like Cornwall.
Conclusion
The call for an Airbnb Bill in Cornwall is indicative of a national conversation about the role of short-term rentals in the housing market. While second homes and vacation lets undoubtedly contribute to tourism, unchecked growth may do more harm than good.
The proposed regulations are a turning point, encouraging responsible let management that prioritises community alongside commerce. For landlords, hosts and investors, staying ahead of the legislative curve—by leveraging professional support and staying informed—is now more important than ever.