Compulsory registration of properties used for STL's such as Airbnb is still is abeyance although there does appear to be some general agreement that it may be necessary in the future.
There are still a proliferation of planning applications incorporating PBSA's and many of these are awaiting a planning decision.Both Vice Chancellors of Bath Spa and Bath Universities have stated that they do not anticipate student numbers to increase in the next 5 years, therefore any PBSA approvals will result in an over supply, especially as HMO accommodation is generally cheaper for students. The danger is that if more PBSA's are approved and there is little demand, the developers/owners will seek to turn them into STLs.
There is a need for more social housing nationwide and this is a constant planning battle.
Graham Feltham: Housing Lead