Argyll and Bute Council has apologised after identifying errors in information published as part of its consultation on a proposed Short-Term Let Control Area (STLCA).
Following feedback received during the consultation, the council reviewed the information provided and found inaccuracies in a table included within the consultation materials.
The council has amended the information and apologised for the mistake. In response to feedback and to ensure people have sufficient time to consider the revised information, the consultation period will be extended by a further two weeks until 15 November 2026.
For the areas proposed as a STLCA, revised figures show that up to 38.8% of housing is unavailable for use as a permanent home, compared with the previously published figure of 42%. This figure includes short term lets, long term empty properties and second homes not used as short term lets. An amended table is available on the council's website.
The consultation is seeking views from residents, businesses, communities and short-term let operators on proposals intended to support housing in areas experiencing the greatest pressure.
The proposed control area would cover Mull and Iona; Coll and Tiree; Islay, Jura and Colonsay; and Oban Lorn and the Inner Isles. A Short Term Let Control Area would only affect new proposals for new Secondary Let Short Term Lets, it would not retrospectively affect existing Short Term Let operators.
Evidence indicates that the concentration of short-term lets is contributing to housing pressures, including reduced availability of homes for permanent occupation, affordability challenges, limited housing choice, recruitment and retention difficulties, risks to population sustainability, and wider impacts on communities and public services.
The council recognises the importance of balancing housing needs with a sustainable tourism economy. Short-term lets provide valuable visitor accommodation and their role must be carefully considered alongside local housing requirements.
Consultation findings will be reported to a future meeting of the council for consideration. If approved by the council, a proposal for a Short-Term Let Control Area would then require the agreement of the Scottish Government before it could be introduced.
