Lambeth council in south London is introducing planning co trips to limit the number of smaller HMOs.
This is despite only a relatively small number of responses to a public consultation.
The council claims residents in two wards in the Streatham area expressed concerns relating to the notably high number of HMOs, and what the council calls “associated impacts” including instances of reported anti-social behaviour, loss of family homes and impact on the character of the areas.
Now a so-called Article 4 Direction will require anyone introducing new ‘small HMOs’ in the two affected wards to apply for planning permission.
A public consultation on the idea last year produced only 153 responses, of which just 103 supported the proposed Direction or stated that HMOs were having a negative impact on the local area.
A statement from the Labour controlled authority says: “When assessing such planning applications, the council will be able to consider matters such as loss of family homes, and impact on local amenity and parking.”
A spokesperson adds: “We are taking firm action to address the negative impacts of HMOs on our residents. This planning mechanism will help control the number and impact of any additional HMOs, protecting family homes and our local communities.”
Last year the same council launched a borough-wide licensing scheme.
This article is taken from Landlord Today