Bolton Council has agreed tough new rules to control the number of homes being converted into HMOs with cabinet members approving an Article 4 Direction restricting their development or conversion with immediate effect.

According to the council’s Deputy Leader, Councillor Akhtar Zaman (pictured), this follows a significant increase in HMO conversions, which has led to Bolton residents complaining about the over-concentration of the shared properties as well as anti-social behaviour, increased traffic and the additional pressure on public services.

Previously, anyone could convert an existing home into an HMO for up to six tenants without planning consent. Now, areas with an Article 4 Direction in place require all HMOs, regardless of size, to get planning approval.

And, the council warns, anyone undertaking an HMO conversion without consent could be ordered to carry out restorative work at their own cost.

Uncontrolled HMOs have caused some concerns within local communities.”

Zaman says: “Uncontrolled HMOs have caused some concerns within local communities, and the new planning rules have the overwhelming support of council members.

“Multiple occupation households have their place in our society and are welcomed as controlled developments, provided they have planning approval, which assesses the suitability and potential impacts of the accommodation in the local areas.”

Residents to have their say

The council says that by ensuring all HMOs are subject to the planning process, residents will have the opportunity to object to any proposed conversions in their area.

And it has already shown it is willing to take enforcement action, with local estate agency Miller Metcalfe fined £3,000 for three offences relating to an HMO in the town’s centre.

Bolton is the latest council to introduce such measures, following recent moves by Derby, Eastbourne, Southend, Peterborough, West Yorkshire, Enfield, Darlington and many London boroughs, as local authorities seek greater control of HMOs in their areas.