Argyll and Bute Council is inviting residents, businesses, communities and short-term let operators to share their views on proposals intended to support access to housing in areas facing the greatest pressure.

The Council has launched a consultation on a proposed Short-Term Let Control Area (STLCA) covering Mull and Iona; Coll and Tiree; Islay, Jura and Colonsay; and Oban, Lorn and the Inner Isles.

National planning regulations enabling STLCAs are designed to balance local housing needs with economic considerations.

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Under the plans, any new use of a house or flat as a short-term let within an STLCA would always require planning permission, which is not necessarily the case elsewhere.

In the area proposed as an STLCA in Argyll and Bute, up to 42% of housing is currently unavailable for use as a permanent home.

Evidence indicates that concentrations of short-term lets are contributing to significant housing market pressures for individuals, families and employers. These include the loss of homes for permanent occupation, affordability challenges, reduced housing choice, recruitment and retention difficulties, risks to population and long-term sustainability, and wider impacts on communities and public services.

The Council also acknowledges the need to support a sustainable visitor economy, noting that self-catering short-term lets are an important tourism resource requiring careful consideration.