Cornwall's picturesque landscapes and vibrant tourism industry have become a double-edged sword for its residents, particularly those living in caravans and horseboxes. The county's booming tourism sector has led to a surge in short-term rentals, making it more lucrative for landlords to offer holiday lets than long-term rentals to locals. This shift has left many van dwellers vulnerable to homelessness as the council cracks down on planning regulations. The situation is particularly dire for Dawn, a 59-year-old former care worker who has been living in a horsebox on a farm for three years. She lost her house 13 years ago and has been struggling to find affordable accommodation since. The council's aerial surveillance and enforcement of planning regulations have forced her to leave, highlighting the harsh reality of being priced out of the housing market. This trend is not isolated; Sue Nicholls, a 75-year-old resident at Potters Farm, has been under investigation for renting pitches to homeless individuals, facing potential eviction and the question of where these vulnerable residents will go next. The council's response, while acknowledging the sensitive nature of the situation, raises questions about the effectiveness of enforcement in addressing the root causes of homelessness and the housing crisis in Cornwall. The story of these van dwellers is a stark reminder of the complex interplay between tourism, housing, and local communities, and the need for a more comprehensive approach to address the housing crisis and support those most in need.
