An estate of new build homes on the Isle of Anglesey has become a focal point of local anger due to planning restrictions that permit the houses to be sold only as holiday homes, barring residents from purchasing them as permanent residences. The Parc Delfryn estate in Brynteg, located near the Anglesey coast, currently has 14 of its 16 houses unsold since their completion in 2023.
These restrictions, which were in place before construction began, were upheld after a challenge failed. Anglesey council stated that altering these rules would establish a "dangerous precedent" for other holiday home developments approved across the island. A potential buyer, Jane Roberts, who grew up in Brynteg and had aspirations to move back to the area where her family has resided for generations, expressed her dismay. She noted that to purchase one of these homes, she would be required to rent out her current residence in Llangefni.
Recent changes in local taxation aim to address the proliferation of second homes. Since April 2024, owners of second homes on Anglesey are subject to an additional 100% council tax, unless the property is rented out for a minimum of 182 days per year. This measure is part of a broader initiative across Wales to empower local councils to charge up to four times the current council tax rates, with the objective of making it more feasible for individuals to acquire homes in their hometowns.
In June 2023, reports indicated that Anglesey had experienced the most significant increase in holiday home ownership among both England and Wales over the preceding decade. As of late 2023, approximately 10% of the island's housing stock was classified as either second or holiday homes, a figure higher than in many other parts of Wales and the United Kingdom. The estate agent handling the properties at Parc Delfryn reported no viewings in the past 18 months, underscoring the local frustration with the situation.