Fewer properties sold as holiday homes in hotspots

FALL AFTER NEW CURB POWERS AND TAX HIKES

- By OWEN HUGHES

THE proportion of properties sold for holiday lets or second homes has fallen significantly in hotspot counties and national parks, according to new figures from the Welsh Revenue Authority (WRA).

The issue of second homes is felt most keenly in areas of Eryri and Pembrokeshire national parks, Gwynedd and Anglesey - with almost half the properties in places like Aberdyfi now second homes.

It has seen a concerted effort to mitigate that trend in a bid to free up more homes for local people. Measures include significant council tax premiums on second homes as well as stricter criteria for a property to be classed as a holiday let, which are exempt from council tax.

Cyngor Gwynedd has also introduced a new Article 4 rule that requires planning permission for a residential property to change its use.

While the measures have been welcomed by many, the tourism industry has warned of the impact on their sector and the Tories have said the focus should be on building new houses.