The picturesque village of Burnham Market, often nicknamed “Chelsea-on-Sea” due to its popularity among wealthy Londoners, has been at the center of a heated debate over second home ownership.
The issue has stirred strong emotions among locals, with some blaming the influx of outsiders for rising house prices and a dwindling sense of community, while others argue that these homeowners bring essential business to the area.
Now, after months of controversy, Dennis Clark, the chairman of the local parish council, has stepped down, citing a “witch hunt” against him.
The Fallout from Controversial Comments
Clark, 77, made headlines last year when he publicly criticized second home owners, claiming their presence had turned the village into something resembling “Center Parcs.”
His remarks sparked outrage, leading to calls for his resignation and even some businesses refusing him entry.
Despite initially standing firm against the backlash, Clark has now resigned, with council minutes confirming that Keith Morris has taken over as chairman.
When reached for comment, Clark confirmed his decision but refused to elaborate, simply stating, “I felt I’d come to the end of my term.”
The Struggle for Affordable Housing
Burnham Market, known for its charming Georgian architecture and stunning coastal scenery, has long been a magnet for affluent city dwellers looking for holiday retreats.
While their presence has contributed to an economic boom, with high-end restaurants, boutique shops, and luxury accommodations flourishing, the surge in property demand has driven house prices to staggering levels.
The average home in the village now costs around £1 million, making it virtually impossible for many locals to buy or even rent.
The situation has become so dire that in 2023, residents overwhelmingly voted in favor of measures to curb the purchase of second homes.
Over 80% backed a proposal to prevent existing homes from being converted into holiday properties and to ensure all new developments are designated as “principal residences” for full-time locals.
The Community Speaks Out
Long-time resident Stephanie Worsley, 76, was among those who supported the restrictions, emphasizing the importance of preserving the local community.
“My children have all grown up and moved away because they can’t afford to live here,” she said.
“It’s been a problem for years, and something needed to be done.”
Similarly, Nina Plumbe, 73, shared her frustrations, explaining how her daughter struggles to raise four children in a cramped rented cottage.
“The prices are out of reach for ordinary families,” she said. “It’s become a crisis.”
Others, however, see second home owners as an economic lifeline.
Local business owners argue that without them, Burnham Market could face financial decline.
One anonymous shop owner dismissed the concerns, saying, “Second home owners and holiday lets bring in a lot of trade, especially in the summer. Without them, we might not survive.”
Tim Roberts, owner of NoTwenty9 restaurant and several shops in the village, was among those who pushed for Clark to step down.
Calling his comments “incendiary and uncalled for,” Roberts argued that the presence of wealthy visitors is vital for the local economy.
A Divided Future
The debate over second homes in Burnham Market is far from over.
While some residents celebrate the efforts to protect local housing, others believe such restrictions could harm the village’s financial stability.
Harvey Butler, a 70-year-old builder, insists that without second homes, the village itself would struggle to exist. “If they were gone, there’d be no shops, no petrol stations, no restaurants.
The jobs just aren’t there anymore like they used to be,” he explained.
Meanwhile, David Howell, a shop assistant born and raised in the village, believes the issue stems from broader housing policies rather than second home ownership alone.
“They sold off all the council houses, so younger people had no choice but to move elsewhere.
It’s not just about second homes—it’s about affordability in general.”
As Burnham Market moves forward under new parish council leadership, the challenge remains: finding a balance between preserving the community and embracing the economic benefits of tourism and second home ownership.
Whether the recent housing restrictions will have a lasting impact or simply drive buyers to find legal loopholes remains to be seen.
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