Could the arrival of Universal UK Resort bring tighter controls on Airbnbs in Bedford? Councillors are asking that question as they consider how accommodation needed for construction workers now — and for visitors when the resort opens — could affect the supply of homes available to local residents.
In a recent council meeting, concerns were raised about homes being bought and potentially turned into short‑term lets as the Universal United Kingdom Resort development progresses. The council is already gathering evidence through its housing working group, looking at the local housing market and changes since Universal’s announcement. Possible Article 4 controls are being considered as part of that work.
But there remains a key question: can Article 4 actually be used to control Airbnbs in the way councillors are hoping? Officers explained that houses in multiple occupation — HMOs — and short‑term holiday lets are treated differently in planning terms. They said Article 4 can be used for certain HMO changes, but further legal advice is needed before making any promises about Airbnb controls.
The intention discussed was to manage short‑term lets through the planning process. Councillors and officers made clear they were not proposing a blanket ban, and spoke about finding a balance between full‑time letting businesses and people occasionally letting out their home.
Getting reliable evidence is proving tricky. Officers said the available data on Airbnb usage isn’t particularly good, and the council has approached VisitEngland to see whether more detailed information could help. They are also looking at what other councils have done and where those approaches have run into difficulties.
Councillors pushed for the council to be proactive. Demand for accommodation around Universal UK Resort won’t suddenly begin in 2031 — construction workers already need somewhere to stay — and councillors want the potential effects on local housing considered now.
A fuller housing and accommodation update is expected at the next committee meeting, including more information on the evidence gathered and the Article 4 position. For now, this is being investigated. No new Airbnb restriction or Article 4 direction was announced during the discussion.
How do you think Bedfordshire should balance accommodation for workers and visitors with keeping homes available for local residents? And would you be interested in running your own Airbnb or short‑term let business in the future?
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