Airbnb has become a dominant force in the UK’s tourist towns. As many as one in four properties are listed on the holiday-let platform in some postcodes. A number of local councils have attempted to restrict and regulate the number of short-term lets, but many of their efforts have been frustrated by legal and administrative challenges.
Campaigners accuse Airbnb of “hollowing out” popular tourist areas, and claim that because landlords can make higher returns by switching from long to short-term lets, local families are forced out and communities destroyed. Others counter that owners have a right to let their properties as they wish, and say the influx of tourists brings income and life to struggling areas.
What’s your view?
Poll result will be published in