Terry Parish, who was a key architect in pushing for the policy to be introduced in west Norfolk, said the fall in house values "should be applauded".

It follows property firms warning second homeowners they will have to drop prices by 30pc if they are looking to sell to avoid paying a 100pc premium on council tax.

Terry Parish outside West Norfolk Council's offices in King's Lynn (Image: West Norfolk Council)

Mr Parish, who was leader of West Norfolk Council when the scheme was first introduced, said: "No one seems to have applauded that result, I do."

In an article for this newspaper, he defended the policy from criticism.

"House prices in second home hotspots are grossly inflated, which may benefit estate agents, currently whingeing, but makes it all but impossible for locals and their dependents to purchase properties to actually live in and work from," he said.

"Second homes are hardly a necessity; having a home is. Whatever can be done to help people get a proper home should be accepted."

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