I sincerely hope that Tim Farron will get some support in government for his proposals on second home ownership (Gazette, November 9, 'Change the law on second homes - MP').

The report mentioned the fact that 7.5 per cent of homes in South Lakeland are second homes.

That doesn’t necessarily show the reality in particular villages. In High Newton that figure has increased to 24 per cent.

At what point does a community become unsustainable due to the lack of the input of young couples or families? I fear that we are getting very close to a tipping point that will become irreversible.

The market only supports those with incomes well above the average for this area and hence prices out those starting on the housing ladder.

Most markets have an element of control and without legislation on limiting the number/percentage of second homes in villages the prognosis is dire. (As most readers will know the market was “rigged” in favour of second homes for years through reduced Council Tax so it’s not as if it can’t be “rigged” in favour of permanent residents through different legislation?)

There is an immediate need to legislate to ensure that there is still time to stop further erosion of the intangible, but critical, asset that is a full contribution, demographically varied community. If this is important to your community can I suggest that you right in support of Tim on this issue?

Mark Jackson

High Newton