Rising Concerns Over Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in Greater Manchester
People need affordable homes. Owners change single houses into HMOs in Greater Manchester. This shift gives tenants simple living plans with many bills paid inside rent. Local residents and officials worry about changes in how neighbors connect. They also fear a drop in family homes.
The HMO Boom: A Double-Edged Sword
HMOs now grow fast in Greater Manchester. Many tenants choose shared homes for low costs. Rising rent makes these places attractive. Bolton Council shows HMOs jumped from about 170 to over 720 since 2010. Landlords gain steady income from fewer empty homes. Students, young workers, and low-income people all find these homes meet their needs.
Community Concerns and Calls for Regulation
More HMOs bring some gains. Yet many residents and local councillors feel uneasy. They see more HMOs that change neighborhoods and weaken neighbor ties. Councillor Sean Fielding proposed a motion in Bolton Council to ask for tighter rules. He said that the change cuts down on the number of family homes in a region with few such houses. In Breightmet, long-time residents think about selling due to many homes switching to HMOs. One resident said, "This was once known as one of the nicest streets in the area. Having transient populations cannot be good for community."
In Salford, a council report finds 1,254 new HMOs between 2017 and 2023. The local government now reviews new HMO plans in areas where such homes make up more than 10% of residences within a 100-metre zone.
Local Voices and Campaigns Against Overdevelopment
Some groups now protest the fast growth of HMOs. In Horwich, "Say No To HMO Horwich" started a petition. They worry that the quick change of family homes into HMOs strains local services and reduces homes for families. The petition calls for housing that helps local families. A campaigner said, "Local families deserve a chance to remain in the area, and housing policies should support them." Many people in Greater Manchester share this worry.
Looking Ahead: Striking a Balance
Local councils now face the challenge of HMOs. They review housing rules to balance needs. HMOs give affordable living in poor markets. But they also risk weakening the unity of communities and reducing family homes. Talks and new rules try to calm the fast change. These plans seek to meet the needs of many residents while keeping neighborhoods intact.
In short, HMOs bring low-cost living in a tough housing market. They also pose challenges that must be managed with clear rules and neighborhood work. As community life shifts, HMOs could shape the future of Greater Manchester neighborhoods.
Sources
- Manchester Evening News: Changing Face of Neighbourhoods
- Bolton Council Reports: HMO Data
- Salford City Council: HMO Planning Policies
Disclaimer: This article has been generated by AI based on the latest news from Google News sources. While we strive for accuracy, we recommend verifying key details from official reports.
