A council wants future HMOs in its area to be subject to an Article 4 Direction, a planning tool used by local authorities to restrict certain permitted development rights.
The measures are being proposed in a consultation in response to the rise in the number of HMOs in the Hyndburn council area.
A report to councillors in December 2024 showed a notable rise in objections from neighbouring residents about the impact of high numbers of HMOs.
A spokesperson says: “We know it’s important to offer a variety of good quality housing in Hyndburn. But we also need to control the growth of HMOs to prevent negative effects on our communities.
“This consultation is a key step in making sure our housing policies meet the needs of our residents.
“Despite the benefits that HMOs can offer, such as providing affordable accommodation for young professionals and low-income households, there are concerns that too many HMOs can lower housing quality and create social problems.
“The council is committed to improving housing quality in Hyndburn and addressing issues related to HMOs.”
In 2010 the government introduced permitted development rights to allow the change of use of dwelling houses to the new C4 use (small HMOs occupied by five people or fewer) without the requirement of planning permission.
The Article 4 Direction, which would come into force from March 2026, would require planning permission to be sought for this change of use in 9 wards in the borough.
By requiring operators to apply for planning permission for the formation of small HMOs in certain wards, the council claims it is able to ensure that such provision is established in appropriate properties in suitable locations.
The public consultation on the Article 4 Direction will run from until May 2.
This article is taken from Landlord Today