Planning minister Matthew Pennycook has raised the possibility of introducing new planning class uses for short-term lets and second homes.

The previous Conservative government proposed a new class for short-term lets but Mr Pennycook suggested that Labour may go further.

His comments came in a debate on second homes at Parliament in response to a question from former Lib Dem leader Tim Farron MP.

Mr Pennycook said: “The Government recognise that excessive concentrations of second homes impact on the availability and affordability of homes for local residents to buy and rent, as well as on local services.

“From April, councils will be able to charge a council tax premium of up to 100% on second homes but, as the hon. gentleman will know, we do not think this is enough.

“We are considering what additional powers we might give local authorities to enable them to better respond to the pressures they face.”

He added: “The previous Government consulted on making short-term lets a different use class, but did not consult on second homes becoming a use class.

“As part of our wider consideration about the additional powers we might give local authorities, I am more than happy to have a conversation with him.”

Will this add an extra layer of unnecessary red tape to an already ‘byzantine’ planning system?

We will wait to read any proposals in more detail and keep you updated. Please contact us to find out more about how this may affect your plans or property.