We are very happy to share the news that MSPs at Holyrood have extended the deadline for existing hosts to apply for a new STL licence from the original date of 1st April to 1st October.
This is in response to the realisation that many councils are not fully prepared for the looming deadline and it would have brought an abrupt reduction in available properties during Scotland’s peak tourist summer season, particularly during the Festivals in Edinburgh. Pressure had not only been applied by the like of the indefatigable Fiona Campbell of the ASSC but also the Fringe Society, who have been very vocal in their opposition to the licensing regime as it has already reduced availability and increased the prices of the available accommodation for this August.
We are also hoping that this delay will see MSPs and the new FM look at the legislation and approach the safety within STLs in a more even-handed manner. The interpretation of Edinburgh Council has clearly fallen outwith the scope of the legislation’s proposed impact on the sector and we are hoping that a more pragmatic approach can be used going forward.
Several fellow operators are actually taking the Council to court via a Judicial Review. Evergreen Property has already financially supported this, as have several of our landlords. We are awaiting to hear more from the petitioners who have recently had a long and productive chat with their chosen KC.
To find our more about the Judicial Review and to support the cause, please check out the site below:
https://www.crowdjustice.com/case/save-the-self-catering-sector-scotland/
As the daffodils and snow drops appear, and with Scottish Rugby, despite a loss last weekend in France, looking in rude health, we hope that we have a lot to look forward in the coming months.
