HOLIDAY homes in the Lake District could be curbed if planning authorities get their way.

South Lakeland District Council (SLDC) and the Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) want powers to turn down applications for second homes in areas where local people struggle to get on the housing ladder.

If given the go-ahead by the Government, both bodies would be free to set a limit on the number of such properties in picturesque Lakeland hamlets.

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg has agreed to meet with Cumbria’s MPs, council leaders, and planning minister Greg Clarke MP, to discuss the issue.

Of the 25,823 dwellings in the Lake District National Park, 4,248 are classed as holiday or second homes – more than 16 per cent.

Peter Thornton, SLDC leader and former housing portfolio holder, said: “The problem in some communities is the proportion has got to such a stage that they drive up house prices and local people can’t afford to live there any more.”

Coun Thornton said the pressure was greatest in the Lake District National Park, where housing supply is limited.

But he added: “We’re not against them per se. Second homeowners bring benefits. Some buy a second home and then retire here, but over a certain proportion becomes damaging to communities.”

In a statement, the LDNPA said the ‘imbalance’ between permanent residential homes and second homes was ‘significantly harming’ communities, and their services and facilities.

A spokesman said: “We need to base any future action at community level to deal with specific local situations, recognising that in some areas we have high levels of need for new housing, which is being exacerbated further by the use of existing housing as second homes.

“We want to work with all of our partners and talk to Government to see what potential solutions we can find, including using planning regulations and approvals to regulate the future growth of properties not intended for local community use.”

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron wants second homes in areas which already have more than 10 per cent of them subject to ‘change of use’ orders. Mr Farron said: “I believe our idea will give the community a strong voice and a real chance to make themselves heard.”

Last year, the Government announced that tax breaks for second homeowners would be scrapped. Councils currently have to provide a council tax discount of up to 50 per cent on such properties but this is due to end.