Following a parliamentary question from Scottish Green Andy Wightman MSP on possible moves to regulate commercial short-term letting, the Scottish Government revealed that they would respond to the Expert Advisory Panel on the Collaborative Economy in the spring.

In his reply at Thursday’s (8th February) General Questions at the Scottish Parliament, the Minister for Local Government and Housing Kevin Stewart spoke of the importance of a balanced approach to the issue, recognising the importance of tourists to the economy while at the same time ensuring that the needs of local residents are taken into account. The Minister also recognised that different parts of Scotland faced different pressures in relation to short-term lets.

The Scottish Government will set their response to the recommendations provided by the Expert Advisory Panel in the spring and they will also consult on any proposed regulatory measures. Andy Wightman was critical of the Expert Panel’s focus on individuals sharing a room in their main residence to the detriment of addressing commercial short-term letting.

The Minister also highlighted that local authorities had a range of powers at their disposal to tackle anti-social behaviour, including the Antisocial Behaviour Notices (Houses Used for Holiday Purposes) (Scotland) Order, but noted that they had been seldom used by councils and that he expected them to use it.

The ASSC welcomes the Minister’s reply and looks forward to the publication of the Scottish Government’s response to the Expert Panel, as well as engaging with any consultation on proposed regulatory measures.