South Ribble Borough Council has agreed to make an immediate Article 4 Direction which will help manage the distribution and quality of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) across the borough.
Anyone wanting to turn a regular house into a HMO (for three to six people who aren’t related and who may share facilities like kitchens or bathrooms) will need to apply for planning permission. This change applies to all areas of South Ribble.
The new rule (Article 4 direction) is a direction under Article 4 of the General Permitted Development Order 2015 which enables the Secretary of State or the local planning authority to withdraw specified permitted development rights across a defined area.
Councillor Colin Sharples, Cabinet Member for Planning and Licensing said, “HMOs do have a place in the borough as they allow for people to live in affordable homes if they are unable to buy or rent on their own, however, we need to make sure that HMOs in South Ribble are safe, well-managed, and fit in with the needs of our communities.
“This change will help us to keep track of HMOs, and through our licensing function, make sure they are properly managed, and ensure they meet good living standards.”
Previously changing a regular house into a small HMO could be made without planning permission under ‘permitted development rights’. Article 4 removes this automatic right so the council can look more closely at each proposal.
Planning permission can still be granted where proposals are suitable and help meet local housing needs. Larger HMOs for more than six unrelated people already require planning permission.
The changes form part of the council’s HMO and Children’s Homes Policy and Action Plan which alongside the Article 4 direction, maps out how the council will:
- Establish a proactive inspection programme and raise standards.
- Ensure effective management practices across both HMOs and children’s homes.
- Provide a framework for collaboration between Environmental Health, and other responsible agencies, enabling full use of statutory powers to address concerns.
If you want to share your views on this policy, then you can submit your comments until 26 March.
Email comments to planning.policy@southribble.gov.uk or visit www.southribble.gov.uk/article4-hmo