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Stop licensing student accommodation

We the undersigned 1) Conduct a thorough review of student accommodation licensing practices to ensure a balance between the needs of students and the availability of housing for local residents. 2) Implement stricter regulations on the repurposing of existing buildings for student housing, prioritizing the needs of the local community. 3) Explore alternative solutions for student housing that do not displace permanent residents, such as encouraging the development of PBSA on underutilised land at the city's fringes.

My name is John Langley, and I am a resident of Bristol.

I am writing to petition Bristol City Council regarding the exponential increase in the licensing of student accommodation (both PBSA) and the repurposing of existing premises to the detriment of around 19.000 people on the local housing waiting list.

Student accommodation is taking over the city centre - and immediately surrounding localities at a rate that excludes local council taxpayers to their disadvantage, while student accommodation, which is nothing more than temporary by nature is given greater priority over more permanent local residents.

Introduction.


The exponential increase in the licensing of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and the repurposing of existing buildings for student housing has resulted in a significant reduction in available properties for local residents. This trend disproportionately affects the approximately 19,000 people on the Bristol City Council housing waiting list.

The rapid expansion of student accommodation, particularly in the city centre and surrounding areas, is effectively squeezing out opportunities for local residents to find permanent housing. This prioritisation of temporary student accommodation disadvantages council taxpayers who are looking to establish roots in the community.

Desired Outcome

I urge Bristol City Council to:

1) Conduct a thorough review of student accommodation licensing practices to ensure a balance between the needs of students and the availability of housing for local residents.
2) Implement stricter regulations on the repurposing of existing buildings for student housing, prioritizing the needs of the local community.
3)Explore alternative solutions for student housing that do not displace permanent residents, such as encouraging the development of PBSA on underutilised land at the city's fringes.

Conclusion

The current situation disproportionately disadvantages Bristol residents. We urge Bristol City Council to take immediate action to address this imbalance and ensure a fairer housing market for all.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Started by: John Langley

This ePetition ran from 31/03/2024 to 12/05/2024 and has now finished.

Nobody signed this ePetition.