Bolton council has agreed tough new rules to control the number of homes being converted into rental properties for multiple tenants.
Cabinet members have approved an Article 4 Direction, restricting the development of HMOs in Bolton with immediate effect.
Previously, anyone could convert an existing home into a HMO for up to six tenants without first needing planning consent. But areas with an Article 4 Direction in place require all HMOs, regardless of size, to have planning approval.
Anyone undertaking a HMO conversion without consent could now be ordered to carry out restorative work at their own cost.
The move comes after a significant increase in HMO conversions in Bolton in recent years. Residents have allegedly raised concerns about the over-concentration of HMOs, which the council claims can lead to anti-social behaviour, increased traffic and additional pressure on public services.
A Bolton council spokesperson says: “Uncontrolled HMOs have caused some concerns within local communities, and the new planning rules have the overwhelming support of council members.
“Multiple occupation household have their place in our society and are welcomed as controlled developments, provided they have planning approval which assess the suitability and potential impacts of the accommodation in the local areas.
“Anyone considering establishing a HMO should first check out the requirements.“The planning service also offers pre-application advice to establish whether applications are likely to be acceptable or not, and planning applications can be submitted online here.”
This article is taken from Landlord Today