A shortage of accommodation in Glasgow during the COP 26 summit has led to Airbnb offering an incentive to people to let out rooms.

Around 30,000 delegates are expected in the city in November for the event but with only an estimated 15,000 hotels rooms and they are all fully booked the short term rental giant is looking for hosts.

The firm said there is a shortage of accommodation and is offering a £100 travel voucher for new hosts to sign up and offer a room during the event.

Properties have already been listed on the site asking in some cases thousands of pounds for a flat during the two weeks in November.

With Presidents and Prime Ministers and government officials from around the world coming to city taking up hotel rooms there are thousands of other delegates from environmental organisations and businesses as well as international media, environmatal campaigners and protesters, there is a huge demand for flats or rooms in homes to let.

Glasgow Times:

Amanda Cupples, General Manager for Northern Europe at Airbnb, said: “Airbnb offers a unique opportunity for communities in and around Glasgow to be a part of history during the landmark COP26 conference.

“Homesharing helps cities use existing space to scale up their capacity and welcome major events. It also empowers locals to provide sustainable and affordable accommodation across the city, benefitting the local economy.”

Airbnb has also committed to donating all of its revenue from service fees for stays taking place in Glasgow during the time of the conference to Zero Waste Scotland, a not-for-profit environmental organisation focused on the circular economy.

Philippa Farnese, Host on Airbnb in Glasgow who is hosting a delegate, said, “I’m delighted for Glasgow to host such an event.

“ It feels like I’m taking part in COP26 even though I’m not a delegate.”