HMO Reporter

In Scarborough, a proposal to convert a former bed and breakfast into a 13-bedroom share house has sparked significant controversy among residents. Despite more than 30 objections raised during a recent planning meeting, the local council has approved the conversion of the three-storey building located at 7 Blands Cliff, igniting fears within the community regarding the potential implications of this...

In a proactive response to a severe funding crisis, Flintshire County Council has unveiled an ambitious strategy aimed at reshaping its homelessness support systems, targeting a budget savings of approximately £850,000. In a region where the council faces a staggering funding deficit of £38.4 million, this move is designed not only to alleviate the pressures on public funds but also to provide more...

In a significant shift for Radcliffe's housing landscape, two former pubs are on the verge of being transformed into shared housing options. The Railway Hotel and the Morning Star pub, both of which have ceased operations, are set to undergo conversions to accommodate up to 20 residents in total. This development arrives in response to the growing need for affordable housing options in Greater Manchester,...

In the ongoing dialogue surrounding housing in Worcester, residents of St John's have raised significant concerns regarding a proposal to expand a house in multiple occupation (HMO) on Woodstock Road from six to eight bedrooms. As student housing continues to grow in popularity, many locals feel this trend is compromising their community's character and infrastructure. The recent application has attracted...

In a decisive move that has sparked significant discussion among local residents, the Bridgend Council's planning committee has approved a contentious project to convert a former residential property on Coity Road into a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). The plans involve creating a six-bedroom dwelling, complete with shared communal facilities designed to accommodate multiple occupants. This decision...

In a significant move to tackle housing shortages and rising property prices, England is set to introduce new council tax premiums on second homes starting in April2025. This legislative change allows local authorities to increase council tax charges on second homes by as much as 100%, provided homeowners receive a minimum notice of one year. The initiative, inspired by similar policies already enacted in...

In Kent, the landscape of housing is transforming with the growing number of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) which currently stands at approximately 1,900 properties. Definitions of HMOs generally refer to accommodations inhabited by multiple tenants from various households, usually sharing communal facilities. This surge in HMOs, exemplified by the largest one located in Folkestone featuring 52...

In a notable move highlighting the ongoing tensions surrounding housing policies in Northern Ireland, the Belfast City Council has recently voted against granting Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMO) status for four properties in North Belfast, including two situated on Ponsonby Avenue. This decision arrives despite recommendations from council officers advocating for approval, suggesting a complex...

In recent months, Darlington has witnessed a growing crisis involving Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) that has raised significant concern among residents and council leaders. Reports indicate a troubling correlation between these properties and a rise in crime rates, alongside deteriorating living conditions for tenants. As communities advocate for change, there are increasing calls for the...

In November 2024, significant changes to council tax for second homes in England have been announced, aimed at mitigating the ongoing housing crisis in popular areas. With new laws set to come into effect in April 2025, local authorities are gearing up to levy increased council tax on properties not designated as primary residences. This response addresses the urgent need to improve housing availability,...