Two new short-term let control areas to be introduced in the Highlands

New controls on short-term lets are to be introduced in parts of the Highlands in a bid to manage future loss of housing stock.

A short-term let control area (STLCA) is to be introduced in Inverness, with a further zone covering areas including Lochaber, Wester Ross, Sutherland, Skye and Raasay, and Aird and Loch Ness.

They will come into effect on April 1 next year, joining the existing STLCA in the Badenoch and Strathspey ward.

The plans were approved by Highland Council’s economy and infrastructure committee on Thursday, following a public consultation which attracted more than 800 responses.

Of those, 84% supported the Inverness City zone, with 72% backing the Highland Rural proposal.

Once in place, the SCTLAs will ensure future changes of use from residential housing to secondary short-term lets are subject to planning controls.

It is hoped the zones will support sustainable communities and balance housing needs with the visitor economy.

Councillor Ken Gowans, chair of the economy and infrastructure committee, said: “A Statutory Notice of Designation will now be published to confirm a commencement date of April 1, 2027.

“This will allow the council to prepare appropriately for the change.

“STLCAs will help us strike a better balance between supporting tourism growth and protecting much-needed housing for local people.

“The introduction of STLCAs is not about stopping short-term lets, but about ensuring the future conversion of residential homes to short-term lets are properly considered through the planning system.” 