Bath MP Wera Hobhouse has welcomed the Government's action on
Airbnb but has criticised it as too little, too late.
The Government has launched a review into the effect of
short-term holiday lets which seeks to improve the holiday
letting market for those living in popular tourism destinations.
The department has issued a call for evidence in an attempt to
better understand the market, opportunities and challenges that
the rise in the use of rental booking websites and apps poses to
tourism communities and visitors.
According to the Government's website, the scheme could include a
registration scheme with spot-checks for compliance with rules on
issues such as gas safety. Bath MP Wera Hobhouse has previously
spoken out about excessive Airbnbs in Bath and the impact on
local house prices, businesses and residents.
Airbnb data showed a 33% increase in UK listings between 2017 and
2018.
commented:
“The original intention behind Airbnb was part of the sharing
economy - now it is just big business.
“In popular tourist destinations like Bath, this has a huge
impact on the local housing market and on traditional B&Bs
and small hotels. Airbnb also doesn't require the same safety
measures as traditional B&Bs and hotels. It is just unfair.
The big increase in Airbnbs has devastated local communities. The
effect is particularly negative when whole houses are turned into
Airbnb properties.
“It is a travesty of the original intention behind Airbnb as part
of the sharing economy - it has been hijacked by big business. Of
course, I welcome a review into the impact of Airbnb on local
communities but frankly it is too little, too late. Many
traditional B&Bs and hotels have been in touch with my office
complaining about the uneven playing field and I hope that the
Government will level this out in good time.
“In other cases, Airbnbs are being used as party houses which
cause nuisance and aggravation to neighbours and contribute to
soaring house prices. It's important that we ensure that Bath
remains an attractive destination, but also a wonderful and
affordable place to live.”
ENDS
Notes to the Editors
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The Government's announcement is here
