ASSC Calls for Action on Inconsistent Planning Decisions Affecting Short-Term Lets

The Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC) continues to highlight serious inconsistencies in planning and enforcement decisions impacting short-term let operators. Recent correspondence with Scottish Ministers shows that, despite clear evidence of systemic issues, the government response has failed to address the core problem, leaving lawful, long-established businesses at risk.

The ASSC has called for urgent intervention to restore clarity and confidence in the regulatory framework, including:

• An immediate national moratorium on planning enforcement and licensing action affecting existing short-term let businesses
• Engagement under the New Deal for Business to establish a legally coherent, proportionate, and consistent regulatory framework
• Clear statutory guidance, including consideration of an appropriate use class for short-term letting

ASSC CEO Fiona Campbell MBE said:
“It is not acceptable for small businesses to be told to absorb this level of uncertainty while the Scottish Government considers its position. Investment decisions are frozen. Operators are exiting the sector under pressure. Confidence has collapsed. This is not a theoretical policy issue; it is active economic harm.”

For reference, we have attached:

• Correspondence with Scottish Ministers and their responses
• Relevant appeal decisions demonstrating inconsistent rulings
• The ASSC’s Response to Ministers

We encourage all members to review the attachments to understand the situation and its implications.