Landlords and agents face HMO crackdown in TWO more areas
Councils in two different parts of the country are planning clampdowns on HMOs in a bid to quell local protests over 'too many' properties of this sort.
The national clampdown on HMO expansion continues apace with two more local councils planning new restrictions.
Hyndburn Council in east Lancashire, which includes Accrington, is responding to a rise in the number of applications for HMOs and children’s homes.
The authority is consulting on an ‘Article 4 Direction’ that would restrict permitted development rights, and planning rules to put a brake on new HMO applications in nine wards.
It says there has been an increase in applications to convert family homes into HMO properties during the past 18 months, and concern from local residents.
We need to control the growth of HMOs to prevent negative effects on our communities.”
Munsif Dad, Council Leader, 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,” he says.
“The Council is committed to improving housing quality in Hyndburn and addressing issues related to HMOs.”
Linc-ed decision
Meanwhile, new rules are planned for HMOs in the whole of North Lincolnshire, it has been reported. All HMOs of whatever size are now required to apply for approval under Article 4 regulations.
Before the council based in Scunthorpe voted unanimously for the new rules, owners of homes with six bedrooms or less could apply for a simplified ‘certificate of lawfulness’ to allow development.
Big council in double attack on landlords and second homes
