Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by PropertyWire. Read the original article for full details.
Government Declines New Restrictions on HMO Conversions
The Government has rejected calls for new legislation to restrict the conversion of family homes into houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), stating that local authorities already have sufficient planning powers to manage HMO growth.
Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook made the announcement in response to a petition presented by Conservative MP Louie French, representing Old Bexley and Sidcup. The petition, signed by 2,347 local residents, requested new legislation to prevent family home conversions into HMOs and called on the Mayor of London to protect family housing in the next London Plan.
Pennycook told Parliament that councils can already use Article 4 Directions to require planning permission for HMO conversions that would otherwise be permitted development. He highlighted that Bexley council has implemented a borough-wide Article 4 Direction, ensuring all HMO proposals are subject to local consultation. Pennycook stated that it is important for local areas to have up-to-date policies for determining planning applications and appeals, and added that the Government would keep its regulatory powers under review.
Petitioners argued that the increase in HMOs was negatively affecting local communities, citing issues such as anti-social behaviour, parking pressures, and increased demand on local amenities and services. They also expressed concerns that existing council powers were not sufficient to prevent the loss of family homes and the over-proliferation of HMOs.
The Government’s response maintains that current planning frameworks provide adequate tools for councils to manage HMO concentrations. Pennycook advised residents with concerns about local housing mix to raise these with their local planning authority. The decision places responsibility on councils to utilise existing powers effectively, rather than introducing new national legislation.
This development is relevant for letting agents and inventory clerks, as it confirms that local authorities remain the primary regulators of HMO conversions, and that existing planning controls, such as Article 4 Directions, will continue to play a key role in managing the balance between family homes and shared accommodation.
Source: PropertyWire