Local MP Josh MacAlister has welcomed the launch of a new Government review into the controversial commission charged when park homes are sold – and is encouraging park home residents across West Cumbria to share their experiences.
The Government has announced a call for evidence into the 10% commission fee paid to site owners when a park home is sold. The charge, set out in the Mobile Homes Act 1983, can cost residents thousands of pounds and has long been debated by park home owners and operators.
The review will gather evidence on why the commission exists, what it pays for, and whether the current system is fair and transparent for residents and site owners.
Josh MacAlister MP has been campaigning on the issue after hearing directly from park home residents across West Cumbria.
Last year, he presented a petition at No. 10 Downing Street on behalf of local park home owners, calling on Ministers to look again at the commission charge.
Josh MacAlister MP said:
“Park home owners across West Cumbria have told me that the 10% commission charged when they sell their homes simply doesn’t feel fair. For many residents – often older people who have downsized or retired – it can mean losing thousands of pounds when they come to move.
“That’s why I worked with park home residents locally to raise this directly with Ministers and present their petition at Downing Street. I’m really pleased the Government has now launched a review to look properly at whether this charge is justified.
“We have more than 500 park homes across West Cumbria, so it’s really important that local residents’ voices are heard as part of this process.
“If you live in a park home locally, I would strongly encourage you to take part in the call for evidence and share your experience so the Government understands the reality for residents.”
The Government says the review aims to better understand the role the commission plays in the park home sector and how it interacts with other income streams such as pitch fees and the sale of new homes.
The call for evidence is open until 29th May, and park home residents, site owners and others involved in the sector are invited to submit their views here
Josh MacAlister MP 