Headington Shark House has beckoned visitors from across the world for overnight stays.
Julia Trinder, a previous guest, said: “I stayed at the Shark House last October, it was perfect for friends and family from near and far to reunite and catch up for a special birthday celebration.”
Mark James added: “The Shark House obviously has appeal for tourist stays, for which there is huge demand in Oxford, so if you ban this from tourist use it will mean people will look for less suitable tourist accommodation, taking up residential space.”
Residents have primarily blamed Oxford City Council, citing their rising annoyance towards the council’s attitude towards local businesses.
Anne Byard expressed her distaste for the council, saying “nothing” it does “surprises” her and that they “hate business”.
Several locals believe the council should compensate the owner for capitalising on the property’s iconic status.
Peter Brown suggested the owner should “ask the council for money as royalties as they use the house to advertise.”
On the other hand, critics of Airbnb and the impact it often has on local housing markets applauded the decision.
Martin McFeely reasoned that measures like these are necessary to “stop the whole of Oxford from becoming an Airbnb” and preserve long-term rentals for locals.
