The Highland Council’s Black Isle and Easter Ross Area Committee has agreed that there is currently no justification to introduce a Short Term Let Control for the area.
The Highland Council’s Black Isle and Easter Ross Area Committee has agreed that there is currently no justification to introduce a Short Term Let Control for the area following a detailed review of the latest evidence.
At the meeting held yesterday (Monday 10 November 2025), members considered a comprehensive report assessing the prevalence of short-term lets and their potential impact on local housing supply across communities including Evanton, Alness, Invergordon, Tain, Fortrose, Avoch, North Kessock, Cromarty, Tore and Munlochy,
The assessment found that only 2% of potential dwellings in the Black Isle and Easter Ross area are currently licensed as short-term lets – significantly below the Highland-wide average of 5%. In addition, new build homes being converted to short-term lets are also happening at a lower rate than across Highland.
While some local communities – particularly within the Black Isle Local Place Plan – have expressed an interest in exploring control measures, the data at this stage does not show that short-term lets are causing significant housing pressure or external market influence in the area.
The Committee therefore agreed not to progress with introducing a control area at this time but will reassess the evidence based in 12 months; time to ensure any future changes in housing or short term let trends are fully understood.
Councillor Lyndsey Johnston, Chair of the Black Isle and Easter Ross Area Committee, said: “This evidence-based approach is about ensuring we make balanced and proportionate decisions for our communities. It’s encouraging that housing markets in the Black Isle and Easter Ross are performing relatively well and continue to serve local residents effectively.
“By continuing to monitor short-term let activity, we can stay alert to any changes while avoiding unnecessary regulation at this time. Our priority remains supporting sustainable housing options and strong, vibrant communities across our area.”
The findings will be revisited in a year’s time, with officers to provide updated evidence review to the Committee.