Peter Bradshaw’s review of Mark Jenkin’s new film Enys Men was, deservedly, one of admiration. However, Mary Woodvine did not play a “well-off landlady” in Jenkin’s previous film, Bait, but a well-off second-home owner. This was the central message of Bait – that well-off second-home owners are decimating many of Cornwall’s villages, particularly those on the coast, increasing house prices to such an extent that home ownership in those communities (or what is left of them) is impossible for local people.
In recognition of this serious issue, a 100% council tax premium on second homes, which could bring in an extra £25m in revenue each year, has been approved by Cornwall council’s cabinet committee. However, last week the Tory councillors voted against earmarking any money at all from the extra council tax on second homes to deliver housing for local people.
Jane Sutherland
Townshend, Cornwall
