In a significant move to regulate the development of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), Hyndburn Council is set to introduce an Article 4 Direction across nine borough wards. This decision arises from growing concerns regarding the proliferation of HMOs, which the council believes are placing undue stress on already deprived communities. The affected wards—Barnfield, Central, Church, Clayton-le-Moors, Netherton, Peel, Rishton, Spring Hill, and St. Andrews—will now require developers to secure planning permission for the establishment of small HMOs, specifically those accommodating three to six unrelated individuals. While the council recognizes the essential role of HMOs in providing affordable housing options for low-income individuals, young professionals, and refugees, it emphasizes the necessity of implementing control measures to avert potential socioeconomic declines and maintain community well-being. Hyndburn’s initiative aligns with broader trends observed in various councils across the UK, such as Salford, which have similarly tightened regulations on HMOs to manage their impact on local areas.
Key Takeaways
- Hyndburn Council’s new Article 4 direction requires permission for small HMOs in designated wards to address community concerns.
- The regulation aims to mitigate the socioeconomic impacts caused by the rise of HMOs in already deprived areas.
- This move aligns with broader trends among councils to enhance oversight of HMOs and protect local community dynamics.
Overview of Article 4 Directions and their Purpose
Hyndburn Council’s recent decision to implement an Article 4 direction marks a significant shift in its approach to housing management within the borough. This direction will mandate that developers seek planning permission for the conversion of properties into small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in nine specific wards: Barnfield, Central, Church, Clayton-le-Moors, Netherton, Peel, Rishton, Spring Hill, and St. Andrews. The rationale behind this action stems from a concerning increase in the number of HMOs, which the council argues are placing additional strain on already deprived communities. With growing apprehension that unchecked HMO developments could exacerbate existing social issues and drive families away from central areas, the council is attempting to strike a balance between providing necessary housing solutions and maintaining community integrity. They recognize the crucial role that HMOs play in accommodating low-income residents, young professionals, and refugees, yet emphasize the importance of regulatory measures to mitigate potential socio-economic drawbacks. This initiative is in line with similar efforts observed in other regions, notably Salford, where restrictions on permitted development rights have been put in place to better manage the increasing prevalence of rented properties and their associated impacts on communities.
Impact of the New Regulations on Local Communities
The implementation of the Article 4 direction by Hyndburn Council represents a proactive step towards managing housing developments that can lead to community instability. By requiring planning permission for HMOs housing three to six unrelated individuals, the council intends to foster a more balanced approach in addressing housing shortages while also safeguarding the well-being of existing residents. This regulatory measure is particularly timely, as the council has noted that high concentrations of HMOs can negatively affect local amenities and the overall quality of life in neighborhoods. Studies have shown that when there is an increase in HMOs without proper oversight, it can lead to issues such as increased noise, litter, and a transient population that often does not engage with the local community (Smith, 2024). The focus on these wards reflects a targeted effort to revitalize specific areas while preventing further decline, bolstering community cohesion and fostering a sense of belonging among residents.
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