Planning consent needed for HMOs if council gets its way 

Hyndburn Council is consulting on introducing an Article 4 Direction to manage the growth of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in the area. This planning tool would require landlords to seek planning permission for converting properties into small HMOs (up to five occupants) in nine wards, effective March 2026.

The move responds to concerns about the negative impact of increasing HMOs on housing quality and communities, as outlined in a December 2024 report. While HMOs can provide affordable housing, issues like overcrowding and social problems have been raised by residents. The council aims to balance housing needs while addressing these challenges.

The public consultation, running until May 2, is a step towards ensuring HMOs are established in appropriate locations. The council remains committed to improving housing standards and community wellbeing through this initiative.