In the Black Isle & Easter Ross, the Area Committee found no evidence to justify introducing a control area.

Only 2% of dwellings are licensed as STLs, well below the Highland average of 5%, and conversions of new-build homes to STLs are also lower. While some communities expressed interest in controls, data shows limited housing pressure.

The Committee will revisit the issue in 12 months.

Chair Cllr Lyndsey Johnston said decisions must remain “balanced and proportionate,” with a focus on sustainable housing and vibrant communities.

In contrast, the Lochaber Area Committee unanimously agreed there is justification for consulting on a control area. Almost 10% of homes are used as STLs, double the Highland average, alongside 5% empty homes and 4% second homes.

Rising house prices, affordability challenges, and external demand are adding pressure, with nearly a quarter of housing stock affected. Fort William shows rapid STL growth, and new-build conversions are higher than elsewhere in Highland.

Chair Cllr Kate Willis noted the need to balance tourism’s benefits with housing pressures, ensuring community input through consultation.

The council will proceed with statutory consultation in Lochaber, while Black Isle and Easter Ross will continue monitoring trends before making any changes.

The announcements come after the local authority’s Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh area committee agreed to progress with the process of considering the introduction of a short-term let control area and the Caithness Area Committee found there was no justification to establish one in its area.