Scotland shows that taxing second homes does lead to more homes for local families – MP

Local MP Tim Farron has reinforced the case for increased taxes on second homes after new figures showed that the number of second homes in Scotland has nearly halved over the last six years.

According to The Herald, the total number of properties officially listed as second homes fell from more than 40,000 in 2012 to under 25,000 in 2018.

Market experts say the large drop off has happened as a result of tax rises on second homes.

Next month Tim will meet with the housing minister to discuss how to tackle excessive second home ownership in the South Lakes.

Tim said: "Here in the South Lakes we've seen far too many communities turned into ghost villages as a result of a lack of a permanent population.

"This is particularly troubling considering that our area has a much greater elderly population leading to many feeling isolated and alone in their community.

"These new figures show increased taxation on those who are able to afford a second home can lead to more homes becoming available for local families and I look forward to making the case for this when I meet with the minister next month."