Recent data from the UK Short-Term Accommodation Association (STAA) and Key Data revealed that empty properties outnumber holiday lets in the majority of UK local authorities.
According to an analysis of 313 UK local authority areas, 58% of them have more homes sitting vacant long term than holiday lets.
The worst touristic area affected by this is Arun in West Sussex, which includes the seaside town Bognor Regis — in this region, there are over 400 long-term empty homes, compared to 66 holiday lets in the district.
Meanwhile, Welsh councils like Caerphilly and the valleys of Rhondda Cynon Taf have over five times more empty homes than holiday lets, while the Highlands in Scotland have over four times as many.
Andy Fenner, CEO at the UK STAA said: “Holiday lets have been taking the blame for the housing crisis for a long time, but this research reveals the true picture — that the blame lies with councils allowing homes to sit idle.
“Most councils are sitting on so many long-term empty homes that they eclipse the numbers of holiday lets in their area — this is where policymakers should be looking to solve the housing crisis, not scapegoating an industry responsible for jobs and investment in areas that often have nothing else.
“This is rampant hypocrisy when councils across the UK are being encouraged to strangle this industry with council tax surcharges, planning requirements and licensing schemes.
“Empty homes benefit no one, and can even have negative effects on neighbours and local communities when left unattended and in disrepair, while short-term lets are a vibrant part of our tourist industry, bringing in visitors from around the world.
“The way people are being demonised for letting out their homes to families who want to enjoy a holiday in the UK is outrageous, especially while empty homes are barely talked about as a problem.
“The housing crisis is a complex issue, and it cannot be solved overnight, but making use of our existing housing stock would be a great place to start.”
