Madam,

Gwynedd Council states there are more second homes in its county than any other and putting a 50 per cent levy on homes they appear to be hoping to dampen their popularity.

Well the reason for the popularity in having property in Gwynedd is because of the beautiful surrounds.

To say that the people owning these properties do not contribute to the economy is like saying they stay in them and don’t move, which is totally stupid.

And why would any council want to dampen the popularity of their county?

The council should be doing everything in their power to make having a second home more popular, not penalise people for doing so.

Second home owners do contribute greatly to almost every outlet going, including restaurants, supermarkets, garages, local shops to name a few...

I remember in the distant past council rates for second homes being rated at half the full price. This surely must be classed as a precedent.

Times have changed we know, but to try and dampen down people’s pleasure in is definitely not the way to get investment in housing stock.

Yours etc, Jean Miles, Harlech.

Have your say on the local issues affecting you - email [email protected] or join in the conversation on our Facebook page