Only 200 people responded to a council consultation – but it is nonetheless ploughing on with a clampdown on new small HMOs.
Telford & Wrekin council launched a consultation in December to look at changing the way HMOs are managed.
A statement from the council now says: “Nearly 200 people commented on the proposed planning changes, which would see an Article 4 Direction being introduced.
“With overwhelming support in favour of the proposals, the Article 4 Direction has been confirmed and will come into force in 12 months (on February 27 2027).”
This means that all new HMOs from February 27 next year will now be subject to planning permission, removing the ability for landlords to create smaller HMOs under permitted development rights.
Meanwhile separate consultation on changes to licensing arrangements is ongoing and people have until 5pm on Wednesday March 11.
Currently only HMOs with five people or more have to apply for mandatory licensing, but under the proposals, the council would require landlords of all HMOs, both new and existing, to pay for a licence.
A spokesperson says: “We are on a mission to improve the availability, quality and affordability of housing for local people through a raft of measures as set out in our housing strategy.
“One area where we know more needs to be done is the management of HMOs.
“… The Article 4 Direction when it comes into force next year will give the council greater control on where HMOs are created.
“It will allow the Council to consider the impact of all new HMOs on local amenities and communities before a planning decision is made.”
This article is taken from Landlord Today