A survey of second homes: their number, character, owners and use

Abstract

Second home ownership is increasing in importance in this country as underlying motivating forces are coupled to expanding opportunities for ownership, principally in ters of the availability of time, money and suitable property (Chapter 1). The study of this phenomenon is hampered by problems of definition and by difficulties of gathering information (Chapter 2), although much work has been undertaken abroad, particularly in France, Scandinavia and North America (Chapter 3.i). In Britain, knowledge is relatively limited in scope and is fragmentary in coverage (Chapter 3.ii), and the writer’s investigation into second homes in Weardale was made as a contribution from a region not previously studied but one where second homes have spread rapidly in recent years (Chapter 3.iii). Second homes in general are characterised by a wide variety of type (Chapter 4.1), and are often purchased or rented through private, rather than through commercial, channels (Chapter 4.ii). Their popularity may tend to increase property prices (Chapter 4.iii), while the common use of much old property often necessitates its extensive improvement and renovation (Chapter 4.iv). The owners of second homes are correspondingly diverse, although they tend to be above average in income and in education (Chapter 5.i). Their average use of the second home varies considerably as does the range of their activities while at the second home (Chapter 5.11), but less diversity is discernible In the location of the first home which is often within two hours driving time of the second home (Chapter 5.111).Increasing numbers of second homes in Britain cause effects at both national and local levels. Nationally, these involve the use of resources that could possibly be used for other purposes while, locally, there are complex economic, social and environmental implications which are, however, little understood at present (Chapter 6). As growth continues, controls seem to be necessary so that the Impact of second home construction on the landscape is minimised, and so that social and economic effects In second home localities are more beneficial than detrimental for the local Inhabitants (Chapter 7).