Government urged to consider full licensing scheme for short‑term holiday lets

The Government is facing renewed pressure to go beyond its planned registration scheme for short‑term holiday lets, after MPs warned that high concentrations of Airbnbs are deepening housing pressures in rural, coastal and urban communities.

During Commons questions, York Central MP Rachael Maskell said the scale of short‑term holiday lets in her constituency was worsening housing affordability, straining public services and fuelling antisocial behaviour. While welcoming progress on the forthcoming national registration scheme, she pressed Ministers to commit to consulting on a licensing scheme in the next parliamentary session, arguing that registration alone would not give local authorities the tools they need to manage excessive concentrations.

Housing and Planning Minister Matthew Pennycook acknowledged the “acute pressures” caused by dense clusters of short‑term lets and confirmed the Government is considering additional powers for local authorities. He said Ministers recognised the impact on the availability and affordability of homes to rent and buy, and would continue engaging with MPs representing affected areas.

Other MPs cautioned against moving too quickly to heavier regulation without first gathering robust data. Conservative MP Graham Stuart warned that hospitality businesses in rural and coastal areas were already under strain and urged Ministers to ensure any intervention was proportionate. Pennycook responded that the registration scheme would help establish the evidence base needed to determine whether further action—such as licensing—was required.