Holiday letting is a hot topic

The debate began in Public Forum, Australia with Long Beach people in particular expressing concern at the proposed amendment.

Jim Flynn, president of Long Beach Area Improvement Group said that body had for some time been asking Council to conduct an in-depth inquiry into the lack of controls on what he described as a commercial-type industry being conducted in residential areas... holiday letting.

"We are continuously being reminded of the benefits to the economy of holiday-makers," he said. "However, many tenants from these places are causing great concern to permanent residents because of anti-social behaviour and a total disregard for their privacy and well-being."

He said the lack of controls on such premises contrasted with the stringent requirements imposed on bed and breakfast establishment where the operators were actually in residence.

Another Long Beach resident, Tom Hayes, spoke of an experience when he went outside at about 1.30 one morning to investigate a noise. He found a tenant of a holiday let premises dumping empty cans and bottles into his garbage bin. When he questioned the dumper he was told he should shut up and go to bed "or you'll end up in the dirt bin."

Carol Hayes said it sometimes seemed Council looked after visitors more than residents, a comment to which Mayor Neil Mumme said he took offence.

Coastwatchers president Mark Fleming said his group was concerned about the number of large investment properties available for short-term letting throughout the Shire. They sometimes resulted in residents having to contend with unacceptable noise levels and other anti-social behaviour, as well as overflowing garbage bins and illegally parked vehicles.

The debate continues.