Since returning to the backbenches St Austell and Newquay’s Member of Parliament Steve Double has wasted no time in getting stuck in, and has already, earlier this week, led a debate in Parliament on housing in tourist destinations.
Speaking in the debate, which was held on Tuesday 28th November, Steve outlined some of the major challenges facing local people who want to be able to rent or buy a property in Cornwall, including affordability, availability and the oversaturation of holiday properties, which have all contributed to significant issues for local people in Cornwall’s housing market.
Steve went on to welcome the work the Government has done to bring in measures to re-balance the housing market through the Levelling Up Act, but called on the Housing Minister to ensure that the proposed changes were enacted as soon as possible, as well as asking that local town and parish councils be given more support, in the face of falling electors, to be able to manage their own finances.
Speaking after the debate, Steve said:
“A major part of my reason for deciding to return to the back benches was to be able to once again take a lead in addressing some of the challenges we face in Cornwall. I am pleased that the first debate I have been able to call and lead in Parliament was on the incredibly important matter of housing in tourist destinations, which is the most frequently raised issue with me by local residents.”
“While the Government has done more than any other to make changes to ensure second homes and holiday accommodation do not disproportionately impact on communities, the current perfect storm of house price increases outstripping wages, the lack of suitable accommodation and proliferation of second homes and short term holiday lets still mean that many in Cornwall face significant issues when it comes to finding a place to live.”
“I was pleased to highlight this to the Housing Minister, and ask him that the new measures planned as part of the Levelling Up Act are implemented as soon as possible.”
“I will continue to do all I can to ensure that the Government takes action to address the housing crisis we are currently facing in Cornwall.”
To read the full debate, follow the link below: