Second homes shame

It is a disgrace that very little of the extra council tax revenue from second homes in Norfolk is going to increase the supply of affordable housing in rural areas (23 January, page 7).

Second homes are a strong factor in the decrease of affordable properties in rural communities, where local people cannot afford to stay in their community.

Many villages have become exclusively populated by wealthy commuters and weekend visitors. Local essential services such as shops and schools have closed as there is nobody to use them or work in them since indigenous people have been forced to find housing elsewhere.

Other factors such as the right to buy and rising property prices have caused young people to leave their communities, and often their counties, to set up home independently. Older people are also affected by this migration, often losing the support and companionship of their younger relatives.

Are we to continue ripping the hearts from our villages? A truly balanced and sustainable community is made up of people from all income groups, cultures and backgrounds.

Shame on you, Norfolk.