18th
May 2022
Special events are taking place this week to test reactions to a possible mandatory register for holiday accommodation such as Airbnb and other short let providers in areas across the UK suffering from a major housing shortage.
The momentum behind the introduction of a mandatory accommodation register across Cornwall is being led by the tourism industry and a statement says it: “recognises its responsibilities for the safety of all and to maximise compliance with safety regulations, but also the impact of non-compliant operators can have on the communities in which they operate and the environment.”
The statement says the impact of Airbnb and other holiday letting portals has caused a massive surge in extra holiday accommodation.
“This has led to over-tourism during peak periods and has added to the growing housing crisis with the loss of residential housing stock.”
Cornish tourism associations have joined each other and sent a proposal forward to the government for Cornwall to be the first ‘pathfinder’ of such a scheme.
The campaigning group consists of South East Cornwall Tourism Association, Bude Area Tourist Board, Penzance & District Tourism Association, Visit Tamar Valley, Visit Falmouth, Land’s End Accommodation and Visit Cornwall.
The group claims that a mandatory register could be the way to help ease the PRS housing crisis and when faced with having to comply with the proposed regulation, could force some landlords to revert back to to letting out their properties on long term tenancies.
Malcolm Bell, chief executive of Visit Cornwall, says: “This is an opportunity to provide a level playing field at last, with all providers bearing the same level of costs. Visitors to Cornwall will be reassured that wherever they stay the accommodation will comply with all necessary legislation to ensure they enjoy a safe, enjoyable holiday.
“It will be a driver to assist in the reduction of periods of over-tourism in certain areas of Cornwall caused by the increased ad-hoc accommodation that has sprung up in peak season and the associated issues that this creates.
“A compulsory registration system would enable a simple way to communicate legislative changes to operators to ensure everyone is up to speed and compliant.
“The generation of key data is a massive advantage to discover the scale of the situation but also a major resource to help with future planning, transport, and healthcare needs. It would also help to spread the visitor load more evenly within the county and, more importantly, throughout the year.”
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