I am calling on the Government to make it easier for councils to impose a 90-day cap on homes let out on Airbnb and other online platforms, handing control of the short-term let sector to the council, as is happening in Scotland.

There, the Scottish Government has announced new measures to give local authorities in Scotland powers to regulate short-term lets if it is in the interests of their local community.  This would be done via a licensing scheme which would cover safety and would also allow councils to address the concerns of local residents.  The Scottish Government is also looking at taxation of short-term lets.

Tourism is a vital part of our city's economy and short-term holiday lets help attract people to Brighton and Hove.  No-one wants to stop visitors coming.  But their needs have to be balanced with those of local residents and the best way of striking that balance is with local control.

Airbnb and other providers are having a significant impact on the availability of private rental homes, when there is already a shortage of rental accommodation.  The impact on local residents is even more when Airbnb properties are used as party houses.  More highly regulated hotels and B&Bs are also being unfairly undercut.  There needs to be a level playing field.

Airbnb needs to work for local residents and the local economy.  Please take a few moments to complete this online survey to make your view clear.

Thank you.

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