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Wales' Eryri National Park introduces planning permission rules for second homes to tackle housing affordability and preserve local communities.
Wales has imposed strict new rules for second-home owners in Eryri National Park.
In an attempt to address housing affordability and preserve local communities, Eryri National Park Authority has become the first national park in Wales to require planning permission to convert homes into second homes or holiday accommodations.
The new rules, enabled by an Article 4 directive introduced by the Welsh government in October 2022, are intended to curb the proliferation of second homes in the area, where many locals have been priced out of the housing market.
Eryri (aka Snowdonia) has seen a significant rise in second-home ownership, with some areas experiencing as much as 80% of properties being unaffordable to local residents.
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The authority said that over half of the local population has been priced out of the market, leaving communities struggling to maintain schools, shops, and other essential services.
Shan Ashden, a resident of the park for 50 years, told BBC that this is not a “blanket ban on holidaymakers” but an effort to restore balance.
"What it will enable communities and the national park to do is be part of a network of actions that will help us get balance back into our communities," she said.
Cymdeithas yr Iaith, the Welsh Language Society, also praised the decision, calling it an “important first step” in limiting second homes and ensuring more housing is available for local residents.
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The Article 4 directive follows a 12-month public consultation that received 357 responses.
Supporters stressed the need to control the number of second homes to ensure sustainable communities and protect the Welsh language.
Critics, however, warned of potential negative impacts on property values, tourism, and local businesses.
Councillor John Brynmor Hughes voiced concerns about the potential backlash, stating that some second-home owners might feel unwelcome and stop supporting local businesses.
"The message is given, 'You're not making us feel welcome – if you don't want us, why should we support your business?' A few people have said that to me," he said.
