TIME is running out for short-term let hosts across East Lothian to submit their application for a licence.
The deadline for existing hosts – anyone who operated a short-term let before October last year – is October 1.
The short-term holiday licensing scheme has been introduced, says the Scottish Government, to support communities in which they operate, as well as to establish a consistent standard across the country for guests and hosts.
The Scottish Government believes the scheme enables local authorities to effectively address local concerns, such as increased congestion and investment in community infrastructure, while balancing the economic benefits of tourism in the area.
Like elsewhere in the country, the scheme has split opinion in East Lothian.
Some holiday let owners who have written to the Courier believe it is unnecessary and costly, while groups such as North Berwick Environment and Heritage Trust see it as a “first step” and wants East Lothian Council to implement a control area to limit the number of short-term lets.
According to research by the trust, about 50 per cent of properties in the centre of North Berwick are short-term lets or second homes, which it says has “serious implications” for the community.
Paul McLennan, East Lothian’s MSP and Scottish Government Housing Minister, encouraged holiday let owners to sign up.
He said: “Short-term let accommodation plays an important role in Scotland’s economy, supporting our tourism and hospitality sector and allowing tourists and holiday goers somewhere to take them closer to the best Scotland can offer.
“I would like to thank those who have already signed up to the scheme across East Lothian, bringing assurances to tourists that their safety is paramount and that they have met local guidelines.
“There are less than two months to go until the October 1 deadline, so I would urge anyone who owns short-term let accommodation and has yet to apply to do so as soon as possible, to ensure you can still take bookings and welcome guests.”
Existing hosts of short-term let accommodation can continue to let out their accommodation while the council makes a decision about their licence application.
The licence costs depend on the property location, size, and type of let.
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