Second homes policy shows impact but fears grow 'vital' visitors will shun Wales
North Wales Live readers remain doubtful that Wales' clampdown on holiday homes is showing a clear "impact on purchasing behaviour". The boom in second homes and holiday lets in some rural and coastal communities has sparked a fierce backlash, with concerns over the strain on local residents.
In parts of Gwynedd, holiday homes have made up half of all properties, prompting stark warnings about threats to the Welsh language and culture. Measures have been brought in to reverse the trend and free up housing for locals – though critics say the real focus should be on building more homes.
The changes include steep council tax premiums on second homes and stricter criteria for properties to qualify as council tax–exempt holiday lets. Cyngor Gwynedd has also introduced a new Article 4 directive requiring planning permission to change a home's use. Other regions are considering similar rules.
While many welcome the crackdown, the tourism industry warns of a potential hit to their trade, and the Conservatives argue that more housing construction should take priority.
New Land Transaction Tax figures – Wales' version of stamp duty – suggest the policies are reducing sales to second home and holiday let buyers. Properties bought as second homes, holiday homes, or for buy-to-let face higher transaction rates, and such sales are now falling.
Adam Al-Nuaimi, Head of Data Analysis at the WRA, said: "Comparing the year to June with the previous year, many areas of Wales saw decreases in their percentage of residential transactions which were higher rates, in particular the Isle of Anglesey and Gwynedd."
Commenter Ofcourseitis says: 'There are some excellent bargains to be snapped up for anyone who wants to retire to North Wales and work from home, it's a great lifestyle change.'
SCATHINGPEN writes: 'So, if the measures imposed by Gwynedd Council with the premium on second home Council tax and the 182 rule for holiday lets is working, how exactly, has the housing demographic changed? Who's buying the properties now? They're still way beyond the price point of locals due to locals not earning the right salaries to buy them.
'I guess they are being bought by those wishing to retire here, those already in the holiday letting business or other, richer second home owners who really don't care how high the council tax is because they're rich. From what I see, there is only one set of winners here, the councils who are always in search of a new source of revenue. The housing crisis hasn't changed. Locals still don't own the keys to their doors.'
Steamnut agrees: 'They are making it up as they go along to justify the actions they have taken. Where are the new builds of low cost housing that were supposed to be built using this extra money? The money should have been ring fenced from the start.'
Lucy1967 points out: 'The people that are buying second homes are those who obviously have plenty of money - having more affordable housing is fine, but you still have to be working and earning over a certain amount. It's not as easy as people may think, we need more social housing for people who cannot afford to buy, renting is as high if not in a lot of cases more expensive than a mortgage. As long as this continues then things will never change, gradually there will be less and less Welsh people living in their own birth place, which is very very sad."
Jnrm replies: 'But some second home owners inherited the properties from parents and wish to maintain a presence in their homeland. The other owners are not 'lucky' they are hard working people who saved their earnings to afford a second home rather than going on expensive holidays every year.'
Statistix says: 'I take issue with the 'I deserve to live in the village where I was brought up' argument. Most children brought up in a nice big house in a popular village have benefitted from their parents' struggle to climb the property ladder. How many of us starting out could or can expect to afford what our parents strived for years for?'
Sparklytiger states: 'You're all blaming incomers for buying homes in Wales. Just remember, it's the Welsh that sold those houses for top prices. Not ONE of the sellers had the morals to think 'I know I can get thousands more but I'll take a really low offer instead so my Welsh compatriots can have a home where they live'. Start by looking at who REALLY is at fault here.'
Tjr42 adds: 'Tourism is vital to Wales.'
Do you think higher taxes on second homes are helping Wales or harming tourism? Share your views in the comments section.
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We wandered around engineering wonders such as Sir Malcolm Campbell's iconic "Blue Bird" and John Godfrey Parry-Thomas's "Babs," gaining insight into the technological advancements that drove these machines to break speed barriers. Interactive displays also offered a deep dive into the lives and legacies of these trailblazing speedsters, and I came away a little more educated and appreciative of this thrilling sport. Things to do further afield — coastal path and more beaches Pendine also offers more than its sandy shores. It's also the starting point for the Wales Coast Path, an 870-mile trek skirting the nation's coastline. The path near Pendine features epic clifftop vistas and wildlife. Heading west, you'll reach the scenic cove of Amroth, while the eastward path offers expansive views of the Gower Peninsula and Carmarthen Bay. With its firm sand and dog-friendly policy during the off-season, the expansive Pendine Sands is a perfect spot for a lengthy beach stroll in Wales. 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Parking tends to be more readily available during the off-peak season, but it can get busy during the height of summer. Beach access for dogs: Dogs are allowed on most parts of Pendine Sands during the autumn and winter. However, restrictions are in place between the slipways from May to the end of September, so check the signage if you're visiting in the summer. Wales Coast Path: The coastal trail around Pendine features breathtaking clifftop vistas and is well-marked. Wear robust footwear, particularly after rainfall, as some parts can become muddy. Nearby facilities: Public lavatories are near the beach, and the village boasts several cafes and small shops within a short stroll. These are ideal for warming up after a brisk day outdoors. Military firing range: Portions of Pendine Sands are occasionally utilised as a Ministry of Defence firing range, which may restrict access. Always check for any notices or limitations before setting off.
