Since 2008, thousands of London homes have been hired via Airbnb and the like; however, individuals not securing planning permission before offering their accommodation for rent face fines of up to £20,000.

Now, a proposed housing legislation amendment will this to happen without planning permission. Housing minister Brandon Lewis said previous guidance in this area was “outdated” and “inconsistently enforced”, and pledged “to update these laws and help boost the sharing economy”.

Under the new legislation, homeowners will be able to rent their house, flat or spare rooms for up to three months a year.

Airbnb welcomed the news, but some London councils have announced their opposition to the changes, on the grounds that it could transform residential properties into hotels, and disrupt neighbourhoods. Westminster Council requested that the let durations be reduced from three months to one.

“This is not about being bureaucratic – it is about making sure housing in Central London does not become a chain of default hotels,” said councillor Heather Acton.